The U.S. State Department has formally notified Congress of its intent to sell over $7 billion in weapons to Israel, as per recent reports.
This significant military sale, totaling more than $7 billion, comprises thousands of bombs and missiles, and was approved by the State Department on Friday. The news comes amidst a fragile ceasefire between West Jerusalem and Hamas.
Earlier this week, President Donald Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. During their joint press briefing, Trump proposed Washington’s control over Gaza and suggested relocating Palestinians outside of Gaza, with neighboring states footing the bill.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) sent two separate sale requests to Congress on Friday. The first package, worth $6.75 billion, includes munitions, guidance kits, and other related equipment, with deliveries commencing this year. The second package consists of 3,000 Hellfire missiles and associated equipment, estimated at $660 million, scheduled for delivery starting in 2028.
This sale is part of President Trump’s ongoing effort to bolster Israel’s weapons stocks. Upon taking office, he lifted a hold on sending 2,000-pound bombs to Israel, a shipment previously halted by the Biden administration due to concerns about civilian casualties, particularly in Gazan city attacks like the one in Rafah.
Despite requests from Democratic lawmakers to pause the sale pending further information, the DSCA announcement proceeded. This move signals the U.S.’s continued commitment to supporting Israel’s military capabilities amidst ongoing regional tensions.