U.S. Approves Sale of $7.4 Billion Arms Deal with Israel

The United States has given the green light for a major arms sale to Israel, approving over $7.4 billion worth of bombs, missiles, and related military equipment. This latest deal underscores Washington’s continued support for its closest ally in the Middle East, despite ongoing concerns over the humanitarian impact of the conflict in Gaza.

The U.S. State Department signed off on a $6.75 billion sale of bombs, guidance kits, and fuses, alongside a $660 million deal for Hellfire missiles.

According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), these weapons will enhance Israel’s ability to respond to current and future threats, strengthen homeland defense, and act as a deterrent to regional adversaries.

Additionally, the DSCA emphasized that the missile sales would bolster the Israeli Air Force’s capacity to protect the country’s borders, critical infrastructure, and civilian population centers.

This development comes in the wake of Israel’s massive military campaign in Gaza, launched in October 2023 following a surprise attack by Hamas.

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The conflict resulted in widespread devastation, displacing much of Gaza’s population. However, a ceasefire agreement has been in place since last month, bringing a temporary halt to the violence and facilitating the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Despite long-standing U.S. support for Israel, concerns over civilian casualties led the Biden administration to block a shipment of 2,000-pound bombs—larger than those included in this latest arms deal.

However, reports suggest that after Donald Trump returned to office, his administration reversed the decision and allowed the previously blocked shipment to proceed. While the State Department has officially approved the sale, the transactions still require Congressional approval. Given Israel’s strong bipartisan support in Washington, it is unlikely that lawmakers will block the deal.