The White House from Washington, DC
US on Monday authorized the sale of bomb guidance kits and related logistical support worth $510 million to Israel, following Israel’s extensive use of munitions in its recent military confrontation with Iran.
In a statement, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said, “The proposed sale will enhance Israel’s capability to address both current and emerging threats by strengthening its ability to safeguard its borders, protect critical infrastructure, and defend its population centers.”
“The United States remains firmly committed to Israel’s security, and helping Israel maintain a robust and capable self-defense system is essential to US national interests,” the statement continued.
The sale received approval from the State Department, and the DSCA has formally notified Congress, which must still give its final authorization for the deal to proceed.
On June 13, Israel carried out an unprecedented aerial offensive targeting Iranian nuclear installations, scientists, and senior military figures in an effort to dismantle Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. While Iran insists its program is for civilian use, the United States and other global powers contend it is designed to develop nuclear weapons.
Former US President Donald Trump had pursued diplomatic efforts for weeks to establish a replacement for the 2015 nuclear agreement he had withdrawn from during his first term. However, he ultimately opted for military intervention, ordering strikes on Iranian nuclear targets.
Although a ceasefire brought the hostilities to a temporary standstill last week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to prevent Iran from restoring its nuclear infrastructure, keeping open the possibility of renewed conflict in the future.
