14-8-2024 (WASHINGTON) US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has approved a potential arms sale to Israel valued at over $26 billion billion. Announced on 13 August, the deal includes a diverse array of military assets, with a primary focus on advanced fighter jets and essential ground equipment.
The US Department of Defense disclosed that the bulk of the agreement centres on the proposed sale of F-15 fighter jets and related equipment, accounting for nearly $26 billion of the total value. The package also comprises tank ammunition worth around $774 million and army vehicles valued at $583 million.
While the tank rounds could be delivered promptly, the Boeing Co F-15 fighter jets have a longer production timeline. The Pentagon estimates these state-of-the-art aircraft will be ready for delivery by 2029, with other equipment expected to be dispatched from 2026 onwards. However, an anonymous expert suggested that some deliveries might occur earlier than projected.
This substantial arms deal unfolds against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. The United States has consistently supported Israel, its key ally in the region, as Israel continues its military operations in Gaza following the 7 October Hamas attack on southern Israel.
The aftermath of Israel’s military actions in Gaza has been devastating. Nearly 40,000 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives, and almost the entire population of 2.3 million has been displaced, according to the local health ministry. The conflict has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, with accusations of genocide being brought against Israel at the World Court—claims that Israel strongly denies.
Highlighting the strategic significance of this arms deal, a Pentagon statement noted, “The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to US national interests to assist Israel in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defence capability.”
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant expressed his gratitude on social media, thanking US officials for their role in maintaining Israel’s “qualitative military edge in the region” and for their steadfast commitment to Israel’s security.
It is important to note that since the Gaza conflict began in October, the US has already supplied Israel with over 10,000 highly destructive 2,000-pound bombs and thousands of Hellfire missiles, according to US officials cited by Reuters in June.
Despite its substantial military support for Israel, Washington has been actively working to negotiate a ceasefire in Gaza, aiming to prevent the conflict from escalating into
a broader regional war. US President Joe Biden proposed a three-phase Gaza ceasefire plan on 31 May, but efforts to implement it have so far been unsuccessful.
The US administration has faced mounting criticism, both domestically and internationally, for its ongoing military backing of Israel. Recent events, including the killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut, have further stoked fears of a wider conflict, with both incidents leading to threats of retaliation against Israel.
