US Approves $3 Billion Weapons Sale to Israel Amid Tensions

The US State Department has approved a significant arms sale to Israel, worth nearly $3 billion, the Pentagon confirmed in a statement on Friday. The deal includes a range of weaponry, such as bombs, demolition kits, and more, with the objective of bolstering Israel’s defense capabilities.

The Pentagon’s emergency notification to Congress bypasses the usual review process, which typically allows chairs and ranking members of the House Foreign Affairs and Senate Foreign Relations Committees time to review and request more information before the formal approval process begins. This expedited sale includes:

- 35,529 general-purpose bomb bodies for 2,000-pound bombs.

- 4,000 bunker-busting 2,000-pound bombs manufactured by General Dynamics.

- 5,000 guided bombs with corresponding kits to enhance guidance for “dumb” bombs.

- $295 million worth of Caterpillar D9 bulldozers.

While deliveries are projected to begin as early as 2026, there’s potential for immediate delivery of some of these items directly from US stock.

Continuing Support for Israel’s Defense

This marks the second emergency weapons approval in just one month. The Trump administration invoked emergency powers to approve a similar sale earlier this month. Under the Biden administration, emergency authorities have also been used to expedite arms sales to Israel, bypassing the traditional Congressional review process.

Impact on US Foreign Policy and Relations

The approval of this arms sale and the rapid use of emergency powers reflects a continued strong US-Israel relationship. It also highlights the ongoing debate over US military support to Israel, particularly as it relates to potential violations of international law. Recently, the Trump administration reversed a Biden-era policy that required reporting potential violations involving US-supplied weapons by allies, including Israel.

Despite the ceasefire agreement, both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of violations, which raises questions about the second phase of the deal that includes additional hostage and prisoner releases. The continued arms sales suggest a reinforcement of Israel’s position, even as peace talks remain fragile.