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The Biden administration has formally notified Congress of its plan to sell $8 billion in arms to Israel, a move underscoring Washington’s commitment to its ally amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The proposed arms package, which requires approval from both the House of Representatives and Senate committees, includes advanced munitions for fighter jets and attack helicopters, artillery shells, small-diameter bombs, and warheads, according to Axios.
This announcement comes amid an ongoing 15-month Israeli offensive in Gaza, triggered by the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and led to the capture of around 250 hostages. The conflict has claimed over 45,000 lives in Gaza, with nearly all of its 2.3 million residents displaced, raising accusations of genocide against Israel — allegations the Israeli government denies.
Despite international protests demanding an arms embargo, the United States has doubled down on its support for Israel, justifying its actions as a defense against threats from Iran-backed groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. In August, the U.S. approved a $20 billion arms deal with Israel, which included fighter jets and other military equipment.
The Biden administration has also drawn criticism for its stance at the United Nations, where it has vetoed Security Council resolutions calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.
As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, the arms deal signals Washington’s unwavering alignment with Israel, even as diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict remain at a standstill.