The United States will fast-track an arms sale to Israel worth nearly $3 billion, including bombs and armoured bulldozers. The US State Department notified Congress about the sale, which features $295 million worth of D9 bulldozers. These bulldozers had been delayed due to concerns about their use in demolishing homes in Gaza.
Details of the proposed arms sale
The sale also includes over 35,000 heavy bombs and other munitions. The US has classified it as an emergency transaction, bypassing the usual Congressional review. The Trump administration did not impose human rights conditions on arms sales. The Biden administration used this process during the Gaza conflict to approve sales as well.
The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) explained that the sale will boost Israel’s security and help the country face current and future threats. It will also strengthen Israel’s deterrence against regional risks.
Congress received approval for three separate sales:
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A $2.04 billion deal for over 35,000 MK 84 or BLU-117 heavy bombs and 4,000 I-2000 Penetrator warheads. Deliveries are set to begin in 2026, though some weapons could arrive earlier from US stock.
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A $675.7 million deal for 201 MK 83 1,000-pound bombs, 4,799 BLU-110A/B 1,000-pound bombs, and 5,000 JDAM guidance kits. Deliveries will start in 2028.
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A $295 million deal for D9 Caterpillar bulldozers and related equipment, with deliveries starting in 2027.
Impact of the D9 bulldozer deal
The Biden administration had delayed the D9 bulldozers due to concerns over their use in demolishing homes in Gaza. The IDF claims the homes belonged to Hamas militants and that civilians were used as human shields.
The Trump administration reversed many of Biden’s measures, including the rescinding of National Security Memorandum 20. This memorandum had required foreign aid recipients to commit to not targeting civilians or restricting humanitarian aid.
This arms sale continues US policy of supporting Israel’s military capabilities through expedited deals.
