22 November 2024,   10:25
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US approves sale to Israel of USD 20 billion weapons package

The United States approved the sale of USD 20 billion in fighter jets and other military equipment to Israel as it prosecutes a 10-month-old war in the Gaza Strip although the Pentagon said deliveries would not begin for years, writes Reuters.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken approved the sale of F-15 jets and equipment worth nearly USD 19 billion along with tank cartridges valued at USD 774 million, explosive mortar cartridges valued at over USD 60 million and army vehicles worth USD 583 million, the Pentagon said in a statement.

The Boeing Co (BA.N), opens new tab F-15 fighter jets were expected to take years to produce, and deliveries were expected to begin in 2029. Other equipment would begin delivery in 2026, according to the Pentagon.

An expert on the process said some deliveries could be even earlier than 2026.
"The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability," the Pentagon said.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, in a post on X, thanked U.S. officials for helping Israel maintain “its qualitative military edge in the region” and the U.S. commitment to Israel’s security.

The U.S., Israel’s biggest ally and weapons supplier, has sent Israel more than 10,000 highly destructive 2,000-pound bombs and thousands of Hellfire missiles since the start of the Gaza war in October, U.S. officials told Reuters in June.

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