President Joe Biden administration has informed key lawmakers of its intention to send over $1 billion worth of additional arms and ammunition to Israel, according to three congressional aides on May 15. The specific timeline for the delivery of these weapons remains undisclosed.
This announcement comes after the administration halted another arms transfer earlier this month, consisting of 3,500 bombs weighing up to 2,000 pounds each. The pause was attributed to concerns over civilian casualties in Gaza, with the administration aiming to prevent Israel from using these munitions in its operations in the region.
The newly disclosed arms package includes approximately $700 million for tank ammunition, $500 million for tactical vehicles, and $60 million for mortar rounds, as revealed by the congressional aides speaking on condition of anonymity.
While the timing of the shipment remains uncertain, it has been clarified that this delivery is not part of the foreign aid package recently passed by Congress and signed by President Biden. It is unclear whether this shipment is a continuation of an existing arms sale or a new arrangement altogether.
Despite criticism from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers regarding the administration’s military support for Israel, President Biden and his officials have affirmed their commitment to providing Israel with necessary defense capabilities. This includes ongoing weapons deliveries and overall military assistance, with a focus on ensuring Israel’s ability to defend itself against threats like Hamas.
In response to House Republicans’ plans to advance a bill mandating offensive weapons delivery for Israel, the White House has stated that President Biden would veto the bill if passed by Congress. While House Democrats are somewhat divided on the issue, the administration remains firm in its stance on providing security assistance consistent with U.S. foreign policy objectives.
The Wall Street Journal initially reported on the plans for the $1 billion weapons package to Israel, highlighting the ongoing debate within Congress over U.S. military support for the region.
