Washington: The United States has approved a weapons sale worth about 151.8 million dollars to Israel as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East during the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
The US State Department said the deal includes around 12,000 BLU 110 bomb bodies weighing about 1,000 pounds each, along with engineering support and other technical services. The weapons are expected to strengthen Israel’s defence capability during the current conflict.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio approved the deal using an emergency provision, which allows the government to move forward without the usual congressional review process. Officials said the decision was taken to ensure that Israel receives the equipment quickly at a time of urgent security needs.
The United States said the weapons will help Israel respond to current threats and improve its ability to defend itself against attacks in the region. Washington also stated that supporting Israel’s security remains an important part of its foreign policy.
The approval comes as fighting in the Middle East has intensified following Israeli strikes on Iranian targets and retaliatory attacks from Iran and its allies. The conflict has increased fears of a wider regional war.
Some lawmakers and human rights groups in the United States have criticised the decision to bypass Congress. They argue that major weapons sales should go through normal oversight procedures, especially during a major conflict.
The United States has long been Israel’s closest military ally and provides billions of dollars in defence support every year. The latest arms sale reflects Washington’s continued backing of Israel as tensions grow across the Middle East.