A Biden administration plan to sell $18 billion worth of F-15 fighter jets to Israel is moving forward after top Democratic holdouts in Congress signed off on the deal. Representative Gregory W. Meeks of New York, who had publicly opposed the transfer citing Israel’s tactics during its campaign in Gaza, has lifted his hold on the deal. He stated that he has been in close touch with the White House and National Security Council about the sale and supports the administration’s plans to hold up the sale of other munitions. Senator Benjamin L. Cardin of Maryland, who had delayed signing off on the deal, agreed to allow it to go forward, joining top Republicans who had already approved the plan months ago.
Closing out the informal consultation process with Congress allows the State Department to move forward on officially notifying Congress of the sale, the final step before sealing the deal. Congressional approval for arms sales to Israel has typically been a foregone conclusion, but this was not the case in recent months due to mounting concern in the United States about Israel’s tactics during the conflict with Hamas. Democrats in Congress have hinted at using their leverage over weapons transfers to demand changes in Israel’s conduct.
The decision to relent to pressure from the Biden administration was a stark reversal for Mr. Meeks, who had been vocal about his opposition to the deal due to the high number of casualties in Gaza and the resulting humanitarian crisis. He had expressed concerns about the use of the weapons in creating more death and emphasized the importance of humanitarian aid and the release of hostages by Hamas. While Mr. Meeks did not clearly state whether he had received assurances regarding these issues, he has allowed the deal to move forward.
Despite the approval from top Democratic lawmakers, the arms sale still faces potential hurdles from outspoken lawmakers who may oppose the deal. The State Department informed the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the Senate Armed Services Committee of the F-15 order in January and received immediate approval from the top Republicans on those panels. A spokesman for Mr. Cardin noted that all concerns related to the order had been addressed through the regular process of deliberation within the administration.
The sale of $18 billion worth of F-15 fighter jets to Israel represents one of the largest U.S. arms sales to Israel in years. The Biden administration’s decision to move forward with this deal despite initial Democratic opposition reflects a nuanced approach to balancing support for key allies with concerns about humanitarian issues and conduct in conflicts. While the decision to proceed with the sale has sparked debate and criticism, the administration’s engagement with Congress and efforts to address concerns indicate a willingness to navigate complex issues related to arms sales and international relations.
