Biden Administration Ignores Human Rights Pressure, Approves $8 Billion Arms Sale to Israel
The US State Department announced on Saturday that the Biden administration has approved an $8 billion arms sale to Israel, amidst the administration’s final days in office.
The arms package includes 155mm artillery shells, AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, small-diameter bombs, and 500-pound warheads.
According to a State Department official, “The Department informally notified Congress of a proposed sale of munitions worth $8 billion to support Israel’s long-term security by replenishing critical munitions stocks and defensive capabilities.”
With this move, Biden has once again ignored pressures from human rights organizations and some Democratic lawmakers who oppose similar sales to Israel.
A source familiar with the deal stated, “The President made it clear that Israel has the right to defend its citizens, consistent with international law and international humanitarian law, and to deter aggression from Iran and its proxies.”
In a speech to Congress in November, progressive Senator Bernie Sanders called for an end to arms sales to Israel, saying, “The United States is complicit in all these atrocities. We are funding these atrocities, and this complicity must end.”
Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump has promised unwavering support for Israel. Unlike
previous incoming presidents, he has not endorsed the two-state solution but has expressed a
desire to reach a ceasefire agreement in Gaza.
Despite intensive diplomatic efforts sponsored by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, no
ceasefire has been achieved since the week-long truce at the end of November 2023.
What is the Fate of ISIS Prisoners Under Syria’s New Administration?
