Senior Democrats in Congress, who had initially resisted the Biden administration’s plan to sell $18 billion worth of F-15 fighter jets to Israel, have now given their approval for the deal to proceed. Representative Gregory W. Meeks, the top Democrat on the Foreign Affairs Committee, had previously voiced his opposition to the sale due to concerns over Israel’s tactics in Gaza. However, he has now lifted his hold on the deal, stating that he has been in discussions with the White House and National Security Council regarding the sale.
Senator Benjamin L. Cardin, Democrat of Maryland and chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, also delayed signing off on the deal but has now agreed to allow it to move forward. This decision comes after top Republicans had already agreed to the plan months ago. The State Department can now officially notify Congress of the sale, marking the final step before the deal is sealed.
The shift in stance by these Democratic lawmakers reflects a growing trend of using leverage over weapons transfers to push for changes in Israel’s tactics. The Biden administration’s efforts to hold up the sale of other munitions indicate a willingness to push Israel to make improvements in humanitarian efforts and limit civilian casualties.
The decision to approve the sale marks a significant reversal for Representative Meeks, who had been vocal in his opposition to the deal. The ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in numerous Palestinian casualties and a humanitarian crisis, has raised concerns among lawmakers in the United States.
Overall, the approval of the F-15 jet sale to Israel by top Democrats in Congress highlights the complex dynamics at play in U.S.-Israel relations and the evolving approach to arms sales in light of ongoing conflicts and humanitarian concerns. It also underscores the importance of diplomacy and dialogue in addressing sensitive issues related to weapons transfers and international conflicts.