The Biden administration’s plan to sell $18 billion worth of F-15 fighter jets to Israel is gaining momentum after two top Democratic holdouts in Congress have given their approval, according to sources familiar with the sale.
Representative Gregory W. Meeks of New York, who had previously opposed the transfer citing concerns over Israel’s tactics in Gaza, has now lifted his hold on the deal. He stated that the sale would take years to complete and expressed support for the administration’s efforts to hold up the sale of other munitions.
Senator Benjamin L. Cardin of Maryland, who had also delayed signing off on the deal, has now agreed to allow it to proceed. This move aligns him with top Republicans who had already approved the plan months ago.
The State Department is now preparing to officially notify Congress of the sale, marking the final step before the deal is sealed. This decision comes after a period of increased scrutiny over Israel’s conduct during the conflict with Hamas, with some Democrats in Congress hinting at using their leverage over weapons transfers to push for changes in Israel’s tactics.
The reversal in stance from Representative Meeks, who had previously voiced strong opposition to the deal, underscores the shifting dynamics within Congress regarding arms sales to Israel. The order for up to 50 F-15 fighter jets is expected to be delivered over several years, but may still face challenges from other lawmakers who have reservations about the sale.
Despite potential hurdles, the administration has addressed concerns raised during the review process with congressional committees, paving the way for the deal to move forward. The approval from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers signals a bipartisan consensus on the sale of these advanced military aircraft to Israel.
As the formal notification process begins, the debate over the F-15 fighter jet sale is likely to continue in Congress, with further discussions expected on the implications of this significant arms deal.
