The administration of President Joe Biden has informed Congress of a proposed $8 billion arms sale to Israel, a source confirmed on Saturday.
The State Department’s informal notification outlines plans to supply Israel with munitions aimed at bolstering its long-term security. These include medium-range air-to-air missiles, Hellfire AGM-114 missiles, artillery shells, and 500-pound warheads, according to the official, who spoke anonymously.
This preliminary step allows congressional committees to scrutinise the proposed sale before a formal notification is issued.
Since Israel’s military response to Hamas’ 7 October attack, the Biden administration has committed billions in arms aid, reaffirming its “ironclad” support for Israel. However, with Gaza’s civilian death toll exceeding 45,700, this support has faced growing political resistance, particularly among Arab and Muslim Americans and progressives.
The White House has defended the move, asserting Israel’s right to self-defence under international law, while urging an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Rising Civilian Casualties
United Nations data indicates that 70% of those killed in Gaza have been women and children. Despite this, the Biden administration refrained from limiting arms shipments in November, even as aid agencies highlighted the dire conditions in Gaza.
Trump’s Position
Former President Donald Trump, a vocal supporter of Israel, has pledged to end the Gaza conflict swiftly if re-elected, though he has not provided specific details.