The U.S. State Department has informed Congress about a proposed $8 billion arms deal with Israel, which includes the supply of munitions for fighter jets, attack helicopters, and artillery shells. This was reported by Axios, citing two sources familiar with the situation.
It is noted that this agreement may be the last one approved by President Joe Biden's administration.
This deal comes amid statements from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his allies, who claimed that the U.S. has allegedly imposed restrictions on arms sales to Israel.
At the same time, some Democrats have urged the Biden administration to impose conditions on the arms supply related to the ongoing war in Gaza and the humanitarian situation. However, Biden has refused to implement such restrictions.
According to sources, the agreement is of a long-term nature. Some of the munitions may be provided from U.S. stockpiles, but the main production and supply will take one year or more.
The package deal, which requires approval from the House and Senate foreign relations committees, includes:
AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles to protect fighter jets from aerial threats, including drones;
155 mm artillery shells and AGM-114 Hellfire missiles for attack helicopters;
Small diameter precision-guided bombs and JDAM kits to convert conventional bombs into precision-guided munitions.
One source noted that the State Department presented the agreement as a step towards "ensuring Israel's long-term security through the replenishment of strategic munitions and air defense systems."
A U.S. official added that President Biden supports Israel's right to defend its citizens in accordance with international law.
We will continue to provide Israel with the necessary means for defense and deterrence against threats from Iran and its allies, he stated.