The State Department has approved a significant arms sale of $20 billion to Israel amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East. The sale includes a variety of weapons, such as fighter jets, tank cartridges, explosive mortar cartridges, and army vehicles, aimed at enhancing Israel's self-defense capabilities. The Pentagon stated that the United States remains committed to Israel's security and assisting in maintaining a strong defense.
Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant expressed gratitude to the U.S. for enabling Israel to uphold its military superiority in the region. The sale encompasses the incorporation of F-15IAs into the Israeli Air Force's fleet and the provision of critical munitions to bolster Israel's security.
As regional tensions escalate, concerns have been raised about potential attacks by Iran and its proxies on Israel in retaliation for recent events. Hezbollah, a terrorist group based in Lebanon, launched 30 rockets into northern Israel, although no casualties were reported.
The arms sales, although substantial, are not expected to be delivered imminently, with the focus being on securing Israel's long-term defense resources. The sale comes at a critical juncture as the region faces heightened instability and the threat of further conflict.