Biden Greenlights $680 Million Arms Deal to Israel as Ceasefire Push Continues, The Biden administration has conditionally approved a $680 million arms deal with Israel. The move comes when the US is also promoting peace in the Middle East, following a newly negotiated ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.
Background of the Arms Sale
This is a long-term development package consisting of hundreds of small-diameter bombs and thousands of kits for the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM), designed to transform regular bombs into precision-guided munitions. Approval of the package was confirmed by different sources, such as Reuters and the Financial Times, citing the intricacies in the United States' foreign policy towards the region.
Recent Developments
Just a day before this declaration, President Biden declared a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, looking to revive efforts for a similar deal with Hamas in Gaza. Even as these diplomatic gestures are made, the U.S. continues to supply heavy military aid to Israel, which has raised concerns about humanitarian impacts amid violence.
Contradictory Positions
While the Biden administration repeatedly speaks about facilitating peace, it has been criticized for inconsistency at a time when it gave the go-ahead to these arms sales. The recently announced military support is reported to be part of the broader trend of U.S. military aid to Israel under various packages, including others that ran into billions.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the ceasefire with Hezbollah was partly necessary to replenish weapon stocks, indicating that military preparedness is a priority even in the face of peace negotiations.
Humanitarian Concerns
The continued war has recorded many casualties. For example, over 44,000 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives since hostilities began in Gaza. A number of human rights champions have expressed alarm at how some of the arms donated to the United States ended up being used against innocent people, raising issues about observing the international law.
Future Implications
As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office soon, many speculate that there may be little change in U.S. policy towards Israel and military aid. The current administration's actions indicate a continuation of support for Israel's security despite increasing calls for accountability regarding humanitarian issues.
With inputs from agencies
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