US Approves $20 Billion Arms Sale to Israel Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

The US has approved a $20 billion arms sale to Israel, including fighter jets and missiles, with Congress notified of the impending deal. Although the weapons won't reach Israel soon, they aim to boost its long-term military capabilities. The Biden administration faces a balancing act between supporting Israel and addressing concerns over civilian casualties in Gaza.

The US has given the green light for a $20 billion arms sale to Israel, encompassing more than 50 F-15 fighter jets and advanced air-to-air missiles, the State Department announced on Tuesday. Congress has been notified of this significant arms deal, which also includes 120 mm tank ammunition, high explosive mortars, and tactical vehicles.

This massive arms sale arrives at a period of intense concern that Israel could be pulled into a broader Middle East conflict. However, it is noted that the delivery of these weapons will take years to complete.

President Biden's administration is treading a fine line, attempting to maintain its long-standing support for Israel while responding to increasing calls from lawmakers and the American public to reconsider military aid due to the high civilian casualties in Gaza.