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 ceasefire 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.

Contributing: Reuters