Blinken okays $20 billion fighter jet and military equipment deal for Israel

The United States approved a $20 billion weapons package for Israel on Tuesday, with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken giving the green light for the sale.

The package includes F-15 fighter jets and various military equipment as Israel continues its 10-month-long war in Gaza. The Pentagon noted that while deliveries of the equipment are expected to begin by 2026, the F-15 jets won't be delivered until 2029, as they require years to produce. However, some experts believe that certain deliveries could occur earlier than projected.

The approved package includes nearly $19 billion worth of F-15 jets, $774 million in tank cartridges, over $60 million in explosive mortar cartridges, and $583 million in army vehicles.

The Pentagon emphasised the importance of this sale, stating that it is crucial for the United States to support Israel in maintaining a strong defence capability, which aligns with US national interests.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant expressed gratitude for the US support in maintaining Israel's military advantage in the region and reaffirmed the strong security ties between the two nations.

Since the conflict in Gaza began in October, the US, Israel's primary ally and arms supplier, has provided Israel with more than 10,000 bombs and thousands of Hellfire missiles. The war has caused significant devastation in Gaza, resulting in a large number of civilian casualties. Efforts by the US and other regional mediators to broker a ceasefire have thus far been unsuccessful.

President Joe Biden proposed a three-phase Gaza ceasefire plan on May 31, but progress has stalled.

The latest escalation in the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered by a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and around 250 hostages being taken. In retaliation, Israel launched an offensive on Gaza, which has led to nearly 40,000 Palestinian deaths, widespread displacement of the 2.3 million population, and a growing hunger crisis.

Israel faces genocide accusations at the World Court, which it denies. The US has faced increasing criticism both domestically and internationally for its continued military support of Israel amidst the ongoing conflict.