Biden Administration Green-Lights $20 Billion in Arms, Aircraft Sales to Israel
The Biden administration has given the green light to provide Israel with a military package that spans $20 billion in weapons and aircraft sales. This significant approval has been announced by the State Department, reflecting the long-term commitment of the U.S. towards Israel’s defense needs.
An Overview of the Deal
Notification of this impending deal has been submitted to Congress, marking a commitment that was initially expected in April of this year, amidst concerns that Israel may be drawn into the broader Middle Eastern conflict. The approved package is designed to include up to 50 F-15 fighter jets, 30 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles, military tactical vehicles, and a significant number of tank cartridges and high explosive mortar cartridges
Although the deal has been approved, the delivery of these weapons to Israel is not expected to commence immediately or even within this is year. Instead, delivery dates span a timeframe from 2026 to 2029.
Controversy Surrounding the Sale
The sale was challenged earlier this year by various lawmakers including Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland. However, officials from the State Department have affirmed to media outlets that the weapons are aimed solely at maintaining and enhancing Israel’s defensive capabilities in the long term.
Delivery Schedule and Production Details
The F-15s, set to be manufactured by Boeing, will take at least a decade to be delivered in full. Furthermore, not only does the contract cover the production and sale of these 50 new aircraft, it also includes an upgrade to Israel’s existing fleet of two dozen F-15 fighter jets with enhanced engines and radars, amongst other modifications. The fighter jets account for more than $18 billion of $20 billion dollar deal.
Escalating Tensions and Implications for Southwest Asia
The approval of this sale comes shortly before cease-fire talks are scheduled to take place, coordinated by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar. Hamas representatives have stated that they will not participate in these talks but have shown commitment to continue negotiations.
These proceedings involving massive military expenditure comes at a time when the Biden administration has had to evaluate its support for Israel amidst increasing calls from U.S. lawmakers and the public for scaling back military support given the high number of civilian casualties in Gaza. The administration has shown a responsive curtailing of one 2,000-pound weapon shipment amidst ongoing airstrikes by Israel within densely populated civilian areas within Gaza.
The approval of this controversial military sales deal has also occurred shortly after Israeli Prime Minister, Netanyahu, reiterated stands about the U.S. withholding weapon supplies to aid Israel’s war efforts in Gaza, a claim that has been refuted by the Biden administration.
