U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio accelerated the delivery of $4 billion in military aid to Israel, emphasizing the commitment to Israeli security against threats. This move follows substantial arms sales approved by the Trump administration, as the conflict continues amidst a delicate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Emergency procedures have expedited arms sales, bypassing typical congressional oversight amid ongoing tensions in the region.
On Saturday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that he signed a declaration to accelerate the delivery of approximately $4 billion in military assistance to Israel. This initiative follows nearly $12 billion in major foreign military sales approved by the Trump administration since taking office on January 20, 2023, reaffirming America’s longstanding commitment to securing Israel against various threats.
Rubio utilized emergency authority to hasten the military support as Israel remains in a tenuous ceasefire with Hamas, the U.S.-designated terrorist organization, amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza. The conflict began with a significant attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in 1,200 Israeli fatalities, primarily civilians, as well as 250 hostages taken.
In response to the conflict, the Pentagon announced on Friday the State Department’s approval of nearly $3 billion in bombs and weaponry sales to Israel. This notification was conducted under emergency procedures, bypassing the usual review process by congressional committees. Thus, the current administration follows a similar trend as was seen during the Biden administration in expediting arms sales to Israel without extensive congressional oversight.
More recently, the Trump administration rescinded a prior order enacted by the Biden administration, which mandated reporting of potential international law violations by allies utilizing U.S. weapons, including Israel. Further, humanitarian foreign aid to affected areas has been significantly reduced under the current administration.
Following a ceasefire agreement dated January 19 between Israel and Hamas, talks progressed to address war-ending measures, which led to the release of hostages on both sides. As the ceasefire’s initial phase neared its end, Israel expressed intentions to adopt a proposal for a temporary ceasefire during the Ramadan and Passover festivities. Nevertheless, allegations of ceasefire violations from both parties have cast doubt on the continuation of peace negotiations.
In summary, Secretary of State Marco Rubio expedited $4 billion in military aid to Israel as part of a broader commitment following major defense sales approved earlier. The emergency procedures used illustrate a shift in oversight practices regarding arms sales, reflected in both the Trump and Biden administrations. The fragile ceasefire with Hamas highlights ongoing tensions and humanitarian issues as negotiations for lasting peace and security continue.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
