The Biden administration has approved the sale of an additional $1 billion worth of weapons to Israel, according to congressional aides. This move comes amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, which has already resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Palestinians and several Israelis.
The weapons sale includes precision-guided missiles, artillery rockets, and other munitions that will be used by the Israeli military in its campaign against Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza. The decision to approve the sale was made by the Biden administration in consultation with Congress, as required by law.
The sale of weapons to Israel has long been a controversial issue, with critics arguing that the U.S. should not be providing military support to a country that is engaged in a conflict with a civilian population. However, supporters of the sale argue that Israel has a right to defend itself against attacks from Hamas and other terrorist groups.
In a statement, the Biden administration defended the decision to approve the sale, saying that Israel has the right to defend itself and that the weapons provided will help to ensure its security. The administration also emphasized that it remains committed to a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and that it is working to de-escalate the situation in Gaza.
The sale of weapons to Israel is just the latest example of the close military relationship between the U.S. and Israel, which includes billions of dollars in military aid each year. This relationship has come under increased scrutiny in recent years, as critics have raised concerns about human rights abuses by the Israeli government and its treatment of the Palestinian population.
As the conflict in Gaza continues to escalate, the Biden administration will likely face increasing pressure to take a more active role in mediating a ceasefire and addressing the root causes of the conflict. However, for now, the decision to approve the sale of weapons to Israel demonstrates the administration’s commitment to supporting its ally in the region.