Israel has approved a plan to purchase new F-35 and F-15IA fighter jets from the United States, as regional tensions continue.
The Israeli Ministry of Defence confirmed that a ministerial procurement committee backed the acquisition of two additional squadrons.
The plan includes a fourth squadron of F-35 aircraft and a second squadron of F-15IA jets. Officials said the deal is worth tens of billions of shekels.
The agreement also covers full integration into the Israeli Air Force. In addition, it includes maintenance support, spare parts and logistics services.
The decision comes during continued military activity in Gaza and along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon. These developments have taken place despite ongoing ceasefire arrangements.
At the same time, tensions with Iran remain unresolved. Earlier this year, the United States and Israel carried out strikes against Iranian targets, which led to retaliatory actions by Tehran.
The situation also affected regional stability, including disruptions to shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz.
A ceasefire was announced on 8 April following mediation efforts by Pakistan. Talks continued in Islamabad shortly afterwards, although they did not produce a final agreement.
US President Donald Trump later extended the truce. However, officials have not confirmed a clear timeframe for its duration.
