The US State Department has approved potential foreign military sales to Israel totaling approximately $6.52 billion, the Pentagon announced Friday.
The approvals include a possible sale of AH-64E Apache helicopters and related equipment, valued at around $3.8 billion, according to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). Boeing and Lockheed Martin are expected to serve as the principal contractors for the deal.
Separately, the department cleared a potential sale of Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs) and associated equipment worth roughly $1.98 billion, with AM General LLC designated as the primary contractor. The DSCA said the sales “will improve Israel’s capability to meet current and future threats by enhancing the mobility of its ground forces during operations.”
The State Department also approved a proposed sale of Namer Armored Personnel Carrier power packs without transmissions, along with integrated logistics support and other related equipment, valued at approximately $740 million. Rolls-Royce Solutions America is expected to be the principal contractor.
The approvals come amid growing international scrutiny of US military support for Israel, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Since October 7, 2023, more than 71,600 people, mostly women and children, have been killed in the region, according to humanitarian organizations.
Several American lawmakers have voiced opposition to continued arms sales. Senator Bernie Sanders, among others, has repeatedly called on the US government to halt weapon shipments to Israel, warning that such support makes the United States complicit in the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
While the Pentagon framed the sales as measures to strengthen Israel’s defensive and operational capabilities, critics argue that the timing of the approvals risks further inflaming tensions in the region and draws Washington deeper into a conflict already attracting global condemnation.
The DSCA emphasized that these potential sales are subject to Congressional review and approval before any contracts can be finalized, a process that could take several months.
