WASHINGTON − On Tuesday, the State Department approved a significant military sale to Israel that includes numerous fighter jets and other equipment valued at more than $20 billion.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken endorsed the sale of F-15 jets and associated equipment costing nearly $19 billion. Additionally, the package consists of tank shells worth approximately $774 million and combat vehicles valued at $583 million.

The tank shells are expected to be delivered right away, while the Boeing F-15 fighter jets will take several years to be produced and delivered.

The United States has been a strong supporter of Israel, especially as it engages in military action in the Gaza Strip, which has severely affected the region’s Palestinian population. This conflict escalated following a surprise attack by the militant group Hamas on October 7 in southern Israel.

The arms sale, authorized by the State Department’s political-military affairs bureau, includes:

• Up to 50 F-15IA and F-15I+ aircraft and related technology totaling around $18.82 billion.
• As many as 30 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) valued at $102.5 million.
• Close to 33,000 120mm tank shells for $774.1 million.
• Up to 50,000 high explosive mortar rounds priced at $61.1 million.
• Medium Tactical Vehicles costing $583.1 million.

While the Biden administration continues to approve arms for Israel, it is also attempting to negotiate a ceasefire in Gaza that could prevent the conflict from escalating into a larger regional war.

Concerns have grown about a wider conflict, particularly following the recent assassinations of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah military chief Fuad Shukr in Beirut, both of which have prompted threats of retaliation against Israel.