U.S. plans $8 billion arms sale to Israel, U.S. official says

Key Points

  • The Biden administration has notified Congress of a proposed $8 billion arms sale to Israel, including munitions for fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery shells.
  • Despite international criticism and calls for an arms embargo, U.S. policy towards Israel has remained largely unchanged, with previous sales amounting to $20 billion in military equipment.
  • The arms deal aims to support Israel in defending against Iran-backed groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis.
  • The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to significant displacement, a hunger crisis, and over 45,000 deaths according to the Gaza health ministry.

Summary

The Biden administration has proposed an $8 billion arms sale to Israel, which includes munitions for fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery shells, amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza. This move comes despite months of protests calling for an arms embargo against Israel. The U.S. has consistently supported Israel, with a previous $20 billion sale of military equipment in August. The arms are intended to help Israel defend against threats from Iran-backed groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. The war in Gaza, now in its 15th month, was triggered by an attack by Hamas militants on October 7, 2023, leading to significant casualties and displacement. The conflict has drawn international criticism, with accusations of genocide that Israel denies, and has resulted in a dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. Diplomatic efforts to end the conflict have failed, and the U.S. has vetoed U.N. Security Council ceasefire resolutions. As President Biden's term ends, both he and the incoming President-elect Donald Trump are known for their strong support of Israel.

cnbc
January 4, 2025
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