U.S. Approves $20 Billion Military Sale to Israel Amid Gaza Conflict

Antony Blinken has approved the sale of fighter jets and military equipment to Israel, valued at over $20 billion. This move comes amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The deal includes F-15 jets, tank cartridges, and army vehicles. The U.S. supports Israel while seeking a Gaza ceasefire.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday approved the potential sale of fighter jets and other military equipment worth over $20 billion to Israel, according to the Pentagon.

The Pentagon noted in a statement that Blinken sanctioned the possible sale of F-15 jets and related equipment valued at nearly $19 billion. Additionally, the sale of tank cartridges worth around $774 million and army vehicles amounting to $583 million was also approved. The tank rounds are expected to be available for immediate delivery, while the Boeing Co F-15 fighter jets will require years to produce and deliver.

The U.S. maintains steadfast support for Israel, its principal ally in the Middle East, as it engages in a war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, following an attack by the militant group in southern Israel on Oct. 7. Simultaneously, the U.S. is striving to broker a ceasefire in Gaza to prevent a wider Middle East conflict. Concerns over an expanded war have intensified following the recent killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut, both of which have sparked threats of retaliation against Israel.