By Zainab Shafiq 
The Biden administration has reportedly informed Congress about plans to approve an $8 billion arms deal with Israel, which will solidify the country’s position as a key ally of the United States. Sources familiar with the matter say that the deal involves munitions for fighter jets and attack helicopters, artillery shells, small-diameter bombs, and warheads. The sale would require congressional approval from both House and Senate committees.
Despite increasing protests and demands for an arms embargo on Israel, the U.S. policy remains firm. Washington has consistently supported Israel, citing a need to defend against alleged threats from Iran-backed groups like Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen.
Inhuman move: US accepts $8 billion arms deal to Israel
The declaration is made against a backdrop of mounting international condemnation of Israel’s Gaza offensive. The continuing conflict has displaced nearly the entire 2.3 million population of Gaza, worsened a severe hunger crisis, and triggered widespread allegations of genocide, which the Israeli side rejects. The Gaza health ministry says more than 45,000 have been killed, with many more feared dead under rubble.
The war, now into its 15th month, started after a deadly attack on October 7, 2023, by Hamas militants, killing 1,200 Israelis and taking approximately 250 hostages. Diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the conflict have failed so far, with the U.S. vetoing multiple resolutions by the U.N. Security Council that called for a ceasefire.
The Biden administration, amid international outrage, remains firm on its allegiance to Israel. This policy finds precedence in bipartisan historical support because President-elect Donald Trump, scheduled to assume office on January 20, is a strong proponent of Israel.