The Biden administration has officially informed Congress about a proposed $8 billion arms sale to Israel, reaffirming Washington’s steadfast support for its closest Middle Eastern ally despite rising global criticism.
The deal, which includes munitions for fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery shells, now awaits approval from both the House of Representatives and the Senate committees, according to a U.S. official.
What’s Included in the Deal?
According to Axios, the arms package also contains small-diameter bombs and warheads, essential for Israel’s ongoing military operations. While the U.S. State Department has yet to comment, this move follows an earlier $20 billion arms sale in August, which included advanced fighter jets and military equipment.
Despite widespread protests and calls for an arms embargo, U.S. policy towards Israel remains largely unchanged. The Biden administration insists that these weapons help Israel defend itself against Iran-backed militant groups like Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen.
Rising Global Criticism Over Gaza Conflict
The announcement comes as Israel continues its military offensive in Gaza, which has displaced nearly all of the enclave’s 2.3 million residents and led to a severe humanitarian crisis. The Gaza Health Ministry reports over 45,000 deaths, with many more feared trapped under rubble. Meanwhile, Israel strongly denies accusations of genocide, arguing that its actions are in self-defense.
The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking approximately 250 hostages, according to Israeli sources. Since then, diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire have repeatedly failed.
U.S. Stance and Security Council Vetoes
The United States, Israel’s largest weapons supplier, has stood firm in its support, vetoing multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions calling for a ceasefire. While the U.S. has urged Israel to minimize civilian casualties, its continued military aid raises concerns over Washington’s role in the conflict.
Political Implications as Trump Prepares to Take Office
With President Joe Biden set to leave office on January 20, the proposed arms deal adds another layer of complexity to U.S. foreign policy. Republican President-elect Donald Trump, who has historically maintained strong ties with Israel, will soon take over, and his administration’s approach to the conflict remains a critical question.
Final Thoughts
As Israel continues its military operations in Gaza and diplomatic solutions remain elusive, the proposed arms sale signals America’s unwavering commitment to Israel’s security. However, it also underscores the deepening divide between U.S. policy and growing international calls for de-escalation.
