In a significant development, two prominent Democrats in the U.S. Congress, Representative Gregory Meeks and Senator Ben Cardin, have given their approval for a substantial arms sale to Israel. This deal, which includes the provision of 50 F-15 fighter jets valued at over $18 billion, was reported by the Washington Post. The approval comes after months of deliberation and substantial pressure from the Biden administration.
The arms sale, one of the largest in recent years, underscores the continued strategic military partnership between the United States and Israel. The Biden administration actively lobbied for the support of Meeks and Cardin, emphasizing the importance of the deal for both nations' security interests. According to the Washington Post, three unnamed officials confirmed that the Biden administration's persistent efforts were crucial in securing the lawmakers' endorsement.
Representative Meeks, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Senator Cardin, who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, had previously held up the sale due to various concerns. However, these issues were addressed through ongoing consultations with the Biden administration. Eric Harris, communications director for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, stated, “Any issues or concerns Chair Cardin had were addressed through our ongoing consultations with the (Biden) Administration, and that’s why he felt it appropriate to allow this case to move forward.”
Meeks highlighted his close communication with the White House, stressing the importance of pressuring Israel to improve its humanitarian efforts and reduce civilian casualties in Gaza. He pointed out that the delivery of the F-15 jets would take years, providing time for diplomatic efforts to address these humanitarian concerns. “I have been in close contact with the White House and have urged them to pressure Israel over humanitarian efforts and civilian casualties,” Meeks said.
The approval of this arms sale comes at a time of heightened scrutiny and internal debate within the Democratic Party over the U.S.'s unwavering support for Israel. President Biden has faced increasing pressure from progressive members of his party to take a firmer stance on Israel's military actions in Gaza, which have resulted in significant Palestinian casualties and displacement. Reports indicate that the ongoing conflict has killed over 37,000 Palestinians and displaced nearly the entire 2.3 million population of Gaza.
Despite these internal party tensions, the Biden administration has consistently advocated for Israel’s right to defend itself and has urged both sides in the conflict to pursue a ceasefire. The administration's stance reflects a broader strategic objective of maintaining a robust defense partnership with Israel, which is viewed as a key ally in the Middle East.
Neither Meeks nor Cardin’s offices responded immediately to requests for comment on their decision. However, their approval marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Israel relations, reaffirming the deep military and political ties between the two nations. The sale of the F-15 fighter jets is expected to bolster Israel’s air capabilities significantly, enhancing its strategic edge in the region.
This arms deal, while controversial, highlights the complex interplay of domestic politics, international relations, and strategic defense priorities that shape U.S. foreign policy. As the situation in Gaza continues to evolve, the Biden administration's ability to navigate these multifaceted challenges will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers.
