President Joe Biden’s administration has informed Congress about a proposed $8 billion arms sale to Israel. The sale comes as the US continues its support for Israel amidst its conflict in Gaza.
Details of the proposed sale
The deal requires approval from the House of Representatives and Senate committees. It includes munitions for fighter jets and attack helicopters, along with artillery shells. Additionally, the package features small-diameter bombs and warheads.
The State Department has not responded to requests for comment.
Despite ongoing protests calling for an arms embargo against Israel, the US has maintained its policy. In August, Washington approved another arms sale to Israel worth $20 billion. That package also included fighter jets and other military equipment.
The Biden administration claims the sales will help Israel defend itself against Iran-backed groups such as Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen.
International criticism and continued US support
International criticism has been strong, yet the US continues to support Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The conflict has displaced nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents and triggered a severe hunger crisis. Israel denies the accusations of genocide.
According to the Gaza Health Ministry, more than 45,000 people have died, with many more feared to be buried under rubble. Efforts to end the 15-month war, which started after Hamas’s attack on October 7, 2023, have so far been unsuccessful. The attack killed 1,200 people and resulted in around 250 hostages being taken.
The US, as Israel’s main ally, has blocked several UN Security Council resolutions calling for a ceasefire. The Biden administration remains firm in supporting Israel’s actions.
As President Biden prepares to leave office on January 20, 2025, and President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take over, both leaders remain strong supporters of Israel.
