The U.S. State Department has casually alerted Congress regarding a significant weapons sale estimated at $8 billion, which is intended to enhance Israel's long-term security by replenishing critical munitions and air defense systems. A U.S. official informed CBS News that while some of the arms might be sourced from existing U.S. reserves, the majority of the weapons will require an extended delivery timeline, potentially taking a year or more.
Included in the arms package are medium-range air-to-air missiles designed for aerial defense, 155 mm artillery shells for long-distance targeting, Hellfire AGM-114 missiles, and 500-pound bombs, among other military assets. This sale adds to the previous record of at least $17.9 billion in military aid provided to Israel since the onset of hostilities initiated by Hamas on October 7, 2023.
The Biden administration is presently under pressure regarding the rising civilian deaths in the Palestinian territories, facing protests on college campuses and attempts in Congress led by figures such as Senator Bernie Sanders to halt the export of offensive weaponry to Israel. Earlier this year, the administration had briefly paused the shipment of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel due to concerns over their potential use in densely populated areas, particularly in southern Gaza, where civilian casualties have been high.
While the U.S. government has urged Israel to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza, it recently decided against restricting arms transfers despite ongoing violence, citing some progress. As airstrikes by Israeli forces continue to result in numerous fatalities, the situation in Gaza remains dire—with about 90% of its 2.3 million residents displaced and now facing winter conditions, many living in makeshift shelters.
The notification sent to Congress does not constitute the final step in the sales process; it allows for oversight by leaders of the House Foreign Affairs and Senate Foreign Relations committees before any official sale can proceed.
15 Comments
Karamba
How can the US justify this when Palestinian civilians are suffering? This is blood money, pure and simple. Shame on the Biden administration for turning a blind eye.
Matzomaster
Israel is a democracy that shares American values. Supporting their security is in the best interests of the US and the region.
Rotfront
This isn't just about Israel vs. Hamas. It's about the US turning a blind eye to the systematic oppression of Palestinians. We need to demand justice and accountability for all.
Matzomaster
The arms package includes defensive weapons, not offensive ones. This is about ensuring Israel can defend itself, not starting a war.
Karamba
The US has a long-standing commitment to Israel's security, and this sale is simply upholding that commitment. Israel faces a constant threat from Hamas and other terrorist organizations.
Habibi
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is tragic, but it is the result of Hamas's actions. Israel is providing humanitarian aid, but it is hampered by Hamas's use of civilian infrastructure.
Muchacho
This is a slap in the face to the Palestinian people. The US government is complicit in their suffering. We need to divest from Israel and support nonviolent solutions.
Coccinella
The international community should stand with Israel as it faces this ongoing threat. Their right to self-defense is undeniable.
Muchacha
The US should not be pressured by those who are biased against Israel. This is a vital step to ensure regional stability and protect innocent lives.
Bella Ciao
Instead of sending weapons, the US should be focusing on sending humanitarian aid and pressuring both sides to negotiate a cease-fire. This is the only way forward.
Comandante
Where is the international outcry? This violence is unacceptable, and the world needs to hold Israel accountable for its actions. Enough is enough!
Africa
Giving Israel more advanced weapons will only embolden them to commit more war crimes. Enough is enough! We need to cut off the flow of arms and hold Israel accountable for its actions.
ytkonos
This is a dark day for diplomacy. By supplying weapons to Israel, the US is effectively endorsing their violent actions. We must speak out against this injustice and demand a peaceful resolution.
Mariposa
Remember the 2,000-pound bombs they briefly paused? This sale includes more of the same. Don't let them fool you - they're still fueling the destruction in Gaza.
Coccinella
Ignoring the threat of Hamas terrorism is irresponsible. This arms sale is crucial to ensure Israel can defend itself effectively.