Washington, D.C. – On January 3, the Biden administration notified Congress of a proposed $8 billion arms sale to Israel. This package, which includes munitions for fighter jets, attack helicopters, artillery shells, small-diameter bombs, and warheads, requires approval from both the House of Representatives and Senate committees.
Despite international criticism and ongoing protests calling for an arms embargo, the U.S. maintains its support for Israel, citing the need to defend against Iran-backed militant groups like Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen. The Gaza health ministry reports a death toll of over 45,000, with many feared buried under rubble due to the conflict, which has displaced nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents.
Diplomatic efforts have so far failed to end the 15-month-old war, which began after an October 7, 2023, attack by Palestinian Hamas militants that killed 1,200 people and resulted in around 250 hostages. Washington has stood by Israel, vetoing UN Security Council resolutions on a ceasefire in Gaza.
With President Biden set to leave office on January 20, Republican President-elect Donald Trump, a strong supporter of Israel, will succeed him. Both administrations have shown unwavering backing for Israel, with the Biden administration previously approving a $20 billion arms sale in August 2024.