WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration has proposed a substantial arms deal with Israel, amounting to over $1 billion in additional weapons and ammunition. This offer comes amidst a pause in a previous arms transfer, where concerns for civilian casualties in Gaza prompted the administration to halt the delivery of 3,500 bombs weighing up to 2,000 pounds each.
The new weapons package includes $700 million for tank ammunition, $500 million for tactical vehicles, and $60 million for mortar rounds. While details are still forthcoming on when the arms will be sent, sources familiar with the matter indicated that this shipment is separate from the long-awaited foreign aid package recently passed by Congress and signed by President Joe Biden.
Criticism from both sides of the political aisle has intensified against the backdrop of Biden’s reelection campaign and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Democrats have urged the administration to place restrictions on offensive weapon transfers to Israel in order to pressure the country to protect Palestinian civilians. Meanwhile, Republican lawmakers view any reduction in U.S. support for Israel as weakening the country’s ability to combat groups like Hamas.
Despite the momentary suspension of a bomb shipment, the Biden administration remains committed to providing military support to Israel. National security spokesman John Kirby emphasized Biden’s dedication to ensuring Israel has the necessary military means to defend itself against all adversaries. However, the administration has made clear distinctions on the use of American weapons in specific operations and locations.
In response to House Republicans’ plans to advance a bill mandating the delivery of offensive weapons to Israel, the White House indicated that Biden would veto the bill if it were to pass Congress. While the bill faces slim chances in the Democratic-controlled Senate, House Democrats remain divided on the issue, with some expressing deep concern over the pause in bomb shipments.
Lawmakers continue to engage in dialogue with the White House on the proposed legislation, emphasizing the importance of preserving the President’s authority in deploying U.S. security assistance in line with foreign policy and national security objectives. The administration remains committed to utilizing all resources appropriated by Congress in the national security supplemental package signed into law last month.