What's happened
The US is set to deliver $6.7 billion in military equipment to Israel, including Apache helicopters and infantry vehicles, despite international criticism and stalled peace efforts. The sales, part of a 10-year agreement, will not be delivered for 2-3 years or longer, amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.
What's behind the headline?
The US military sales to Israel highlight a complex geopolitical landscape. The approval of $6.7 billion in weapons, including Apache helicopters and infantry vehicles, signals unwavering US support despite mounting international criticism. This move underscores the US's strategic commitment to Israel, even as allies like the UK, Turkey, and Italy condemn Israeli actions in Gaza. The delayed delivery timeline reflects the ongoing conflict and diplomatic tensions. The Biden administration's support contrasts with recent international calls for restraint, revealing a prioritization of military backing over diplomatic solutions. This arms package will likely bolster Israel's military capacity in Gaza, potentially prolonging the conflict. The US's stance may deepen regional tensions, complicate diplomatic efforts, and influence future US-Middle East relations. The decision also raises questions about the effectiveness of US diplomacy in conflict resolution, as military aid continues to flow amid stalled peace talks and widespread condemnation.
What the papers say
The Times of Israel reports that the US plans to sell $3.8 billion worth of Apache helicopters and $1.9 billion in infantry vehicles to Israel, with delivery expected in 2-3 years. The New Arab echoes these details, emphasizing international condemnation of Israel's Gaza offensive and noting the stalled peace process. AP News confirms the figures and highlights the broader context of US military aid, including recent approvals totaling $12 billion this year. All sources agree on the scale of the arms sales and the geopolitical tensions surrounding the conflict, though The Times of Israel and AP focus more on the US support, while The New Arab emphasizes international criticism.
How we got here
The US has long supported Israel with military aid, with recent approvals totaling about $12 billion this year. The current sales follow Israel's intensified military operations in Gaza and stalled US-led peace negotiations. International allies have expressed concern over Israel's offensive actions, with some countries restricting arms exports and airspace to Israeli military flights.
Go deeper
Common question
-
Why Is the US Sending $6.7 Billion in Military Aid to Israel Now?
The US has recently approved a massive military aid package to Israel amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza. Many wonder why this support is happening now and what it means for global stability. Below, we explore the reasons behind this aid, international reactions, and the broader implications of US foreign policy moves in the region.
More on these topics
-
Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
-
The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
-
The Gaza Strip, or simply Gaza, is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, that borders Egypt on the southwest for 11 kilometers and Israel on the east and north along a 51 km border.