The United States on Monday announced the approval of a $510 million sale to Israel of bomb guidance kits and related support, following Israel’s extensive use of munitions in its recent conflict with Iran.
“The proposed sale will enhance Israel’s capability to meet current and future threats by improving its ability to defend Israel’s borders, vital infrastructure, and population centers,” the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a statement.
“The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to US national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability,” it added.
The State Department approved the possible sale, and the DSCA has notified the US Congress, which must still authorize the transaction.
Israel launched an unprecedented air campaign on June 13 targeting Iranian nuclear sites, scientists, and senior military officials to halt the country’s nuclear program, which Tehran claims is civilian but which Washington and other powers suspect aims at developing atomic weapons.
Former President Donald Trump had pursued diplomatic efforts to replace the nuclear deal with Tehran that he withdrew from in 2018 but eventually authorized US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
A ceasefire paused the conflict last week, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to prevent Tehran from rebuilding its nuclear facilities, raising the possibility of future clashes.
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