US approves $20 billion Israel arms package
WASHINGTON ? The State Department on Tuesday cleared the sale to Israel of dozens of fighter jets and other military equipment worth over $20 billion.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken approved the possible sale of F-15 jets and equipment worth nearly $19 billion. The package also included tank shells worth around $774 million and combat vehicles worth $583 million.
The tank rounds would be almost immediately available for delivery. The Boeing F-15 fighter jets would take years to produce and deliver.
The U.S. has staunchly supported Israel as its top Middle East ally prosecutes a war in the Gaza Strip that has devastated the Palestinian enclave. The war was set off by the militant group Hamas' Oct. 7 attack in southern Israel.
The sales approved by the State Department's bureau of political-military affairs include:
? As many as 50 F-15IA and F-15I+ aircraft and related equipment worth up to $18.82 billion.
? Up to 30 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) worth $102.5 million.
? Nearly 33,000 120mm tank cartridges at $774.1 million.
? Up to 50,000 high explosive mortar cartridges at $61.1 million.
? Medium Tactical Vehicles worth $583.1 million.
While approving weapons to Israel, the Biden administration has tried to arrange a cease-fire deal in Gaza that would potentially stave off a wider Middle East war.
Fears of a broader war have increased since the recent killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. Both drew threats of retaliation against Israel.
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Contributing: Reuters
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Blinken greenlights $20 billion Israel arms deal
