The Biden administration is facing scrutiny as it pushes Congress to approve a plan to sell $18 billion worth of F-15 fighter jets to Israel, despite calls to limit arms sales due to Israel’s military offensive in Gaza. The State Department has initiated the legislative review process for the sale of up to 50 F-15 planes, along with munitions, training, and support.
With a top speed of nearly 2,000 miles per hour, the F-15 is a versatile aircraft capable of air-to-air combat and ground bombing. Israel’s request for these planes indicates concerns about regional threats from Hezbollah, Iran-backed militias, and Iran itself. The Israel Defense Forces may use the F-15s in potential attacks on Iran’s nuclear program.
Critics of Israel’s actions in Gaza, where over 32,000 Palestinians have been killed, are calling for the Biden administration to leverage arms sales to enforce change. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken defended the transfers, emphasizing the broader security concerns Israel faces from various regional threats.
While the administration has expedited arms shipments to Israel, bypassing congressional approval, some argue that conditioning arms sales could embolden Iran and weaken Israel’s deterrent power. Senator Chris Van Hollen urged the administration to enforce consequences for Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Despite ongoing tensions, Israel continues to request advanced weaponry from the U.S., including F-35 jets. The sale of F-15s and other weapons underscores the complex dynamics at play in the region and the challenges faced by the Biden administration in balancing support for Israel with calls for accountability.