The Biden administration is deliberating an arms deal worth $18 billion with Israel, which could involve the sale of up to 50 F-15 aircraft, according to Reuters sources.
The potential sale of 25 F-15s has been under scrutiny since its formal request was made in January 2023, predating Israel’s recent military operations in Gaza.
Israeli occupation Defense Minister Yoav Gallant’s Washington visit last week aimed at accelerating aircraft deliveries, with discussions held with key U.S. officials including National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.
Amid growing international concerns, human rights group pressures, and calls from Democratic lawmakers to impose conditions on arms transfers due to Israel’s Gaza campaign, President Biden’s administration has been actively reviewing the F-15 sale.
The House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul reportedly approved the sale on January 30, following necessary congressional notifications.
Despite these advancements, potential delivery of the aircraft faces a delay, with the earliest estimated arrival being 2029.
U.S. legislation mandates congressional oversight for significant foreign military sales, allowing Congress the ability to block such deals through a resolution of disapproval for reasons such as human rights violations.
However, such resolutions have historically failed to survive presidential vetoes. A preliminary review process permits bipartisan leaders of foreign affairs committees to vet agreements informally prior to formal congressional notifications.
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