US Approves $7.41 Billion Military Sales to Israel Amid Ongoing Gaza War

The United States has approved a potential $7.41 billion foreign military sale to Israel, the Pentagon announced on Friday, reinforcing its commitment to the country’s defense capabilities amid the ongoing war in Gaza.

Massive Arms Deal Greenlit

The U.S. State Department authorized the sale, which includes munitions, guidance kits, fuzes, and munitions support worth approximately $6.75 billion, according to a statement from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). Additionally, the department approved a $660 million sale of AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and related equipment.

The agency has formally notified Congress of the potential sales, emphasizing that the U.S. remains committed to ensuring Israel’s security.

“The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to assist Israel in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability,” the DSCA said.

Approval Comes Amid Netanyahu’s U.S. Visit

The announcement coincided with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, D.C., where he met with President Donald Trump to discuss bilateral relations and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Last month, Trump lifted a hold on U.S. weapons shipments to Israel that had been imposed by the previous Biden administration.

In May 2024, former President Joe Biden had paused the delivery of a shipment that included 2,000-pound bombs, citing concerns that their use in densely populated areas of Gaza could cause massive civilian casualties.

Criticism Over U.S. Military Support to Israel

The U.S. has faced global criticism for its continued military support to Israel, particularly in light of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Since the war began on October 7, 2023, more than 47,000 people, mostly women and children, have reportedly been killed.

In the U.S., several lawmakers, including Senator Bernie Sanders, have repeatedly called for Washington to halt arms shipments to Israel, arguing that it makes the U.S. complicit in the destruction.

Despite growing opposition, the U.S. government continues to provide military assistance to Israel, reaffirming its longstanding alliance with the country.

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