The administration of President Joe Biden has informed Congress about a proposed arms sale to Israel valued at $8 billion (€7.7 billion), as reported by a U.S. official. Washington continues to support its ally amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in tens of thousands of casualties.
This deal requires approval from committees in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, and it encompasses munitions for fighter jets and attack helicopters, along with artillery shells. Additionally, the package reportedly includes small-diameter bombs and warheads, as highlighted by Axios.
The State Department has not yet provided a response to a request for comment.
For months, protesters have been advocating for an arms embargo against Israel, yet U.S. policy has remained largely consistent. In August, the United States authorized the sale of $20 billion (€19.3 billion) in fighter jets and other military equipment to Israel.
In the face of international criticism, Washington has continued to support Israel during its offensive in Gaza, which has resulted in the displacement of nearly the entire 2.3 million population of Gaza, contributed to a hunger crisis, and led to accusations of genocide that Israel denies.
The health ministry in Gaza reports that the death toll has exceeded 45,000, with many more individuals believed to be trapped beneath rubble.
Diplomatic initiatives have yet to yield results in ending the 15-month-long Israeli conflict in Gaza, which was initiated following an attack by Hamas militants on October 7, 2023, that resulted in 1,200 deaths and approximately 250 hostages taken, according to Israeli figures.
As Israel’s principal ally and arms supplier, Washington has also previously vetoed United Nations Security Council resolutions calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Democrat Biden is scheduled to leave office on January 20, when Republican resident-elect Donald Trump will assume the presidency. Both leaders are known for their strong support of Israel.
