US Approves $5.6 Billion Arms Package for Israel Amid Rising Regional Tensions

The United States on Friday approved multibillion-dollar weapons sales to Israel amid heightened tensions with Iran and ongoing instability in the Middle East.

According to the State Department, the approval includes a $3.8 billion sale of 30 Apache attack helicopters to Israel, which is currently observing a fragile ceasefire in Gaza. The department said the decision reflects Washington’s long-standing commitment to Israel’s security and to supporting its ability to defend itself.

“This proposed sale aligns with US national interests and our commitment to Israel’s security,” the State Department said in a statement.

The package also includes a separate $1.8 billion sale of joint light tactical vehicles.

The United States provides Israel with billions of dollars in military assistance each year, much of it in the form of aid rather than direct sales.

Israel and Hamas reached a US-brokered ceasefire in October, largely halting nearly two years of fighting in Gaza. However, tensions remain high across the region, as the United States has increased its military presence in waters near Iran.

Last year, Israel carried out extensive airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military facilities. Iran has also faced mounting internal pressure following widespread protests against the ruling clerical establishment, which authorities have violently suppressed.

The Trump administration has stated that the Gaza ceasefire has entered a second phase, with efforts now focused on disarming Hamas.

The conflict escalated after Hamas carried out an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,221 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally that includes hostages who died in captivity.

Since then, at least 71,667 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza during Israel’s military campaign, according to the territory’s health ministry.