US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday approved a $20 billion sale of various military equipment to Israel on Tuesday, according to a statement from the Pentagon. Blinken had planned to visit the Middle East the same day, but reports indicate that he postponed the trip due to escalating security concerns in the region.
This significant arms deal underscores the United States' continued commitment to supporting Israel’s defence capabilities amid ongoing regional tensions. In addition to the approved arms sale, the US government is also set to release $3.5 billion in military aid to Israel. This funding is part of a $14 billion supplemental package passed by Congress in April, aimed at bolstering Israel's military resources during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The State Department notified Congress of the intent to release these funds last Thursday, highlighting Washington's strategic support for Israel.
Secretary Blinken has postponed his planned visit to the Middle East due to escalating security concerns and the threat of possible Iranian retaliation, as reported by Walla. Initially scheduled for Tuesday, the visit was expected to include stops in Qatar, Egypt, and Israel. This trip was intended to address the rising tensions in the region, particularly in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Previously, Blinken had visited the region in June, where he worked to ease tensions and negotiate a deal for the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. During that visit, he emphasised the importance of Hamas agreeing to the deal and the need for further integration between Israel and its Arab neighbours to enhance regional stability.
The situation in the Middle East remains volatile, with fears of the conflict expanding following the recent killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut. These incidents have heightened the risk of a broader regional war, with threats of retaliation against Israel.
The ongoing conflict has already led to significant casualties, with the Gaza health ministry reporting nearly 40,000 Palestinian deaths and widespread displacement, leading to severe humanitarian concerns and accusations of genocide, which Israel denies.
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