By WASHINGTON, D.C., USA – The United States has approved a substantial $20 billion weapons package for Israel, including advanced F-15 fighter jets and other military equipment, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Tuesday. The Pentagon confirmed the approval in a statement, highlighting the strategic significance of the deal amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The package includes F-15 jets and associated equipment valued at approximately $19 billion, alongside a significant supply of tank cartridges worth around $774 million and army vehicles valued at $583 million. According to the Pentagon, the tank rounds are expected to be ready for almost immediate delivery, while the production and delivery of the F-15 fighter jets could take several years.
The U.S. has been a staunch ally of Israel, providing military support as the nation continues to face ongoing conflicts in the region. The approval of this weapons package comes as Israel prosecutes a war in the Gaza Strip, which was triggered by the militant group Hamas’ October 7 attack in southern Israel.
While reinforcing Israel’s military capabilities, the U.S. has also been working diplomatically to broker a ceasefire in Gaza, aiming to prevent a wider conflict in the Middle East. However, the situation remains tense, especially following the recent killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut, both of which have heightened the threat of retaliation against Israel.
The arms deal underscores the U.S.’s commitment to Israel’s security, even as it navigates the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, balancing military support with efforts to de-escalate violence in the region.
