International
US Announces $8bn Arms Sale to Israel Ahead of Biden’s Exit
- US notifies Congress of $8bn arms sale to Israel, including missiles and munitions.
- Biden defends Israel’s right to self-defense amid Gaza conflict civilian casualties.
- Final major arms deal under Biden ahead of Trump’s inauguration in January 2025.
The US Department of State has informed Congress of an $8 billion (£6.4 billion) arms sale to Israel, an American official confirmed.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the proposed shipment, which requires approval from House and Senate committees, includes advanced missiles, artillery shells, and other munitions.
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This development comes just weeks before President Joe Biden concludes his term. Washington has dismissed calls to suspend military support for Israel despite the significant civilian casualties during the Gaza conflict.
In August, the US approved a $20 billion arms deal with Israel, highlighting its ongoing commitment to the nation’s defence.
The latest consignment features air-to-air missiles, Hellfire missiles, artillery shells, and bombs. A source familiar with the sale said, “The president has made clear Israel has a right to defend its citizens, consistent with international law and international humanitarian law, and to deter aggression from Iran and its proxy organisations.
“We will continue to provide the capabilities necessary for Israel’s defence.”
Biden has consistently described US support for Israel as “iron-clad.” The US remains Israel’s largest arms supplier, accounting for 69% of its major arms imports from 2019 to 2023, according to SIPRI.
Joe Biden
In May 2024, the US temporarily paused a shipment of bombs over concerns about a major ground operation in Rafah, Gaza.
The move drew criticism from Republicans and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who likened it to an “arms embargo.” Biden later partially lifted the suspension but has avoided similar actions since.
The arms deal is part of Biden’s recent efforts to solidify his foreign policy legacy. It is expected to be the last major weapons sale to Israel before he leaves office on January 20, 2025, when President-elect Donald Trump takes over.
Trump, a vocal supporter of Israel, has called for a swift end to its Gaza operation while emphasizing his backing for the country.
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Israel launched its military campaign against Hamas following the group’s attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which killed 1,200 people and resulted in 251 hostages.
Since then, over 45,580 people have been killed in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
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