(Reuters) – The Biden administration has illegally notified the US Congress of an $8 billion arms deal to Israel that includes fighter jets and attack helicopters, Axios reported on Friday, citing two sources.
The deal will require approval from House and Senate committees and includes artillery shells and air-to-air missiles for fighter jets to defend against threats such as drones, the report said.
The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
“The President made it clear that Israel has the right to protect its citizens, in accordance with international law and international humanitarian law, and to prevent violence from Iran and its organizations,” the American official was quoted by Axios.
The package also includes small-diameter bombs and warheads, according to Axios.
Diplomatic efforts have so far failed to end Israel's 15-month-old war in Gaza. President Joe Biden will leave office on Jan. 20, when Donald Trump will succeed him.