Israel (Transatlantic Today) – In a recent report by The Washington Post, it has been revealed that the United States government has greenlit substantial arms sales to Israel. Despite strained relations between US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the Biden administration has discreetly authorized the transfer of new weaponry to Tel Aviv, including 2,000-pound “dumb” bombs and advanced military equipment.
The report highlights that the approval includes billions of dollars worth of arms sales, as disclosed by unnamed officials within the Pentagon and the US State Department. The administration’s decision to proceed with the arms transfer comes amidst international condemnation over Israel’s actions in Gaza, described by some as “genocide” against Palestinians.
According to the disclosed information, the recent approvals include the delivery of 25 F-35A fighter jets and MK84 bombs, among other munitions. While Congress previously sanctioned some of these sales, the recent authorizations mark the first steps toward their delivery.
Despite the significant arms transfers, the sales have not been publicly announced, and no notifications have been made on the Defense Security Cooperation Agency’s website, where such information is typically disclosed.
US-Israel Relation
The decision to proceed with the arms sales highlights the United States government’s stance on backing Israel, despite the recent strained diplomatic ties between the Biden administration and Netanyahu. The Biden administration has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting Israel unconditionally in its efforts against groups such as Hamas, dismissing the idea of tying military aid to influence Israeli policies
However, relations between Biden and Netanyahu have been tense, with a planned Israeli delegation visit to Washington canceled following a UN Security Council resolution that increased international pressure on Israel. Efforts are underway to reschedule the visit, indicating ongoing discussions between the two administrations.
Criticism and Concerns
this latest development has not been without criticism. Several Democratic senators have voiced concerns about the arms sales, violating a 1961 law prohibiting arms transfers to countries that interfere with American aid deliveries. Senators such as Sanders, Van Hollen, Merkley, and others have called on Biden to reconsider the sales in light of this violation.
In a letter addressed to Biden, the senators emphasized the importance of upholding the law and ensuring that US military assistance is not provided to countries impeding humanitarian efforts. The issue highlights the complex dynamics surrounding US-Israel relations and the challenges faced by the Biden administration in navigating these relationships amidst global scrutiny and domestic pressure.