According to the New York Times, Israel has requested $10 billion in emergency assistance from the United States. This information was revealed by three unidentified officials. The White House and members of Congress are working on a package that would combine military assistance to Israel with aid to Ukraine and Taiwan, as well as funds to fortify the US-Mexico border.
During a visit to Tel Aviv on Sunday, US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer mentioned that lawmakers had discussed providing Israel with new and replacement ammunition, precision-guided bombs, and Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) kits. These kits are used to convert standard munitions into more accurate ones, improving the precision of attacks.
The details of the $10 billion combined aid package have not been disclosed in the report. However, it is clear that Israel is seeking assistance amid the conflict with Hamas. The conflict escalated on October 7 when Hamas attacked southern Israel with rockets and sent fighters across the border. This resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,400 people.
In response, the Israel Defense Forces retaliated by dropping thousands of bombs on Gaza and cutting off the enclave’s water and electricity supply. The air raids have led to the deaths of over 2,800 Palestinians in the past 10 days, according to local health authorities.
US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen addressed the issue on Monday, stating that the US could afford to support both Israel and Ukraine in their military needs. She reassured that the financial resources of the US are sufficient to back its allies abroad. However, Yellen acknowledged concerns about the potential economic impact of a wider conflict in the Middle East.
While top US officials claim that they can support both Israel and Ukraine, CNN reported last week that the Pentagon had called on defense manufacturers to increase production. This was to compensate for stockpiles being transferred to Ukraine and ensure that there are enough weapons and supplies available to support Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also weighed in on the situation, warning that his country is prepared for a “long war” and that they will fight until Hamas is completely defeated. He also stated that Israel is willing to retaliate against Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant group, if they attempt to intervene in the conflict.
This request for aid comes amid tensions in the region and concern over the stability of Israel and its neighboring countries. The US government is actively working to address these concerns and provide assistance to its allies. The exact details of the aid package are still being worked out, but it is evident that there is a focus on ensuring the security and stability of Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan, as well as fortifying the US-Mexico border.
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