US Proposes $8 Billion Arms Sale to Israel Despite Ongoing Gaza War
Washington’s Support for Israel Remains Unwavering
The US administration has notified Congress of a proposed $8 billion arms sale to Israel, according to two US officials. This move comes amidst the ongoing Gaza war, which has killed tens of thousands of people.
The deal would need approval from the House of Representatives and Senate committees and includes munitions for fighter jets and attack helicopters as well as artillery shells. The package also includes small-diameter bombs and warheads, according to the sources.
Capabilities for Israel’s Defense
One source familiar with the package said President Biden had been clear that Israel has a right to defend its citizens “consistent with international law and international humanitarian law,” and that the US would continue to provide the capabilities necessary for Israel’s defense.
Some of the munitions deliveries could be furnished through current US stock, while the majority would take up to several years to deliver, the source said. The package includes AIM-120C-8 air-to-air missiles to defend against drones and other airborne threats, 155mm artillery shells, Hellfire AGM-114 missiles, and $6.75 billion in other bombs and guidance systems, one of the US officials said.
State Department’s Silence
The State Department did not respond to a request for comment. Protesters have for months demanded an arms embargo against Israel, but US policy has largely remained unchanged. In August, the United States approved the sale of $20 billion in fighter jets and other military equipment to Israel.
Biden Administration’s Position
The Biden administration says it is helping its ally defend against Iran-backed militant groups like Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen. Washington has stood by Israel during its assault on Gaza that has displaced nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million population, caused a hunger crisis, and led to genocide accusations that Israel denies.
The Gaza health ministry puts the death toll at over 45,000 people, with many additional feared buried under rubble. Diplomatic efforts have so far failed to end the 15-month-old Israeli war in Gaza that was triggered by an October 7, 2023 attack by Palestinian Hamas militants on Israel that killed 1,200 and in which about 250 were taken hostage, according to Israeli tallies.
UN Security Council’s Veto Power
Washington has also previously vetoed UN Security Council resolutions on a ceasefire in Gaza. Democrat Biden is due to leave office on January 20, when Republican President-elect Donald Trump will succeed him. Both are strong backers of Israel.
Conclusion
The US proposal for an $8 billion arms sale to Israel amidst the ongoing Gaza war raises concerns about Washington’s continued support for its ally’s military efforts. The Biden administration’s stance on the conflict and its implications on the region remains unchanged. The international community has called for an end to the violence, and the proposed arms sale only exacerbates the situation.
FAQs
Q: Why is the US proposing an arms sale to Israel?
A: The Biden administration says it is helping Israel defend against Iran-backed militant groups in the region.
Q: How much does the proposed arms sale amount to?
A: The deal is valued at $8 billion and includes munitions for fighter jets, attack helicopters, artillery shells, and small-diameter bombs and warheads.
Q: How long will the delivery of these munitions take?
A: Some deliveries may be made through current US stock, while the majority would take up to several years to deliver.
Q: What is the current situation in Gaza?
A: The ongoing war in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 45,000 people, with many additional feared buried under rubble, and has caused a hunger crisis and led to genocide accusations.