Biden Administration Advances $680 Million Arms Sale to Israel Amid Lebanon Ceasefire

WASHINGTON, Nov 27 — Despite ongoing tensions and a newly brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Biden administration is moving forward with a substantial $680 million arms sales package to Israel. A U.S. official familiar with the deal confirmed on Wednesday that the sale, which was initially reported by the Financial Times, includes advanced weaponry aimed at enhancing Israel’s military capabilities.

The package comprises thousands of Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) kits, which convert unguided bombs into precision-guided munitions, along with hundreds of small-diameter bombs. These munitions are considered crucial for improving Israel’s airstrike capabilities, especially in precise, high-accuracy operations.

The arms deal comes at a time of heightened regional tensions, despite the recent ceasefire brokered by the U.S. between Israel and Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group. The ceasefire, which has temporarily halted hostilities, follows months of escalating violence between the two sides, particularly along Lebanon’s southern border.

While the Biden administration has indicated that the arms sale is part of its ongoing support for Israel’s security, critics have expressed concern about the continued flow of U.S. weapons into the region amidst the fragile ceasefire agreement. The delivery of these advanced weapons is also expected to further complicate the already volatile situation in the Middle East, especially given the increasing tensions with Hezbollah.

The sale is being closely watched on both sides of the Atlantic, with the Biden administration reaffirming its commitment to supporting Israel’s defense needs. However, it is also drawing attention from international groups who are calling for greater oversight and diplomacy to prevent further escalation in the region.

The $680 million deal marks another significant military support measure for Israel, as it continues to navigate complex security challenges in the region. While both the U.S. and Israeli governments argue that such sales are vital for Israel’s defense, critics warn that it could inflame existing conflicts and delay efforts to reach a lasting peace agreement in the Middle East.

The official did not provide further details on the specific timing of the weapons delivery, but the deal is expected to be finalized in the coming months.