Desk Report:
The Donald Trump administration has sought congressional approval for a $6.4 billion military equipment and weapons sale to Israel, Reuters reported, citing multiple sources familiar with the matter.
The proposal, which was submitted to Congress on Friday (September 19), comes as the Israeli military has stepped up its offensive in Gaza City, bombarding Hamas infrastructure and forcing displaced Palestinians to flee.
The news comes as world leaders gather in New York next week for the annual United Nations General Assembly, where a high-level Security Council meeting on Gaza is also scheduled.
The proposed package includes several major deals. One of them is 30 AH-64 Apache attack helicopters for $3.8 billion. Another deal is worth $1.9 billion, which will provide the Israeli army with 3,250 infantry assault vehicles. In addition, another $755 million in parts for armored vehicles and power supplies is in the works.
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Republican President Donald Trump has full support for Israel’s military operations. However, there is a growing division among Democrats over Israel’s Gaza operation.
Last Thursday (September 18), a group of US senators introduced a resolution calling for the recognition of a Palestinian state for the first time. In addition, more than half of the Senate Democrats recently voted against further arms sales to Israel.
