The United States on Tuesday approved the sale of fighter jets and other military equipment worth $20 billion to Israel, which continues its ongoing war in the Gaza Strip for the last 10 months. However, the U.S. Department of Defense (Pentagon) stated that delivery will not begin for years. According to a statement from the Pentagon, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken approved the sale of F-15 jets and equipment worth approximately $19 billion, along with tank munitions valued at $774 million, explosive mortar shells worth over $60 million, and military vehicles worth $583 million.
The production of F-15 fighter jets by Boeing is expected to take years, with deliveries starting in 2029. The delivery of other equipment is scheduled to begin in 2026, according to the Pentagon. However, one expert in the process indicated that some deliveries might occur before 2026. The Pentagon stated, "The United States is committed to Israel's security, and it is important for U.S. national interests to assist Israel in developing strong and ready self-defense capabilities and maintaining them."
In a post on X, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant thanked U.S. officials for their assistance in helping Israel maintain its "qualitative military edge in the region" and the commitment of the United States to Israel's security.