The United States Department of State has approved an emergency arms sale worth $151.8 million to Israel, supplying thousands of heavy aerial bombs and related military support amid heightened security concerns in the Middle East.
In a statement released by the State Department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Washington said the proposed Foreign Military Sale would provide Israel with 12,000 BLU-110A/B 1,000-pound general-purpose bomb bodies, along with engineering, logistics and technical support services.
U.S. officials explained that the Secretary of State authorised the transaction under an emergency determination, allowing the deal to proceed immediately without the usual congressional review process required under the Arms Export Control Act.
According to the statement, the waiver was granted because the administration considers the sale essential to U.S. national security interests and necessary to respond quickly to regional security developments.
The United States said the weapons package would help strengthen Israel’s defensive capabilities and enhance its ability to confront current and future threats while reinforcing deterrence against hostile actors in the region.
Washington also described Israel as a strategic partner that plays a significant role in maintaining political stability and economic progress in the Middle East.
Under the arrangement, the principal contractor for the munitions will be Repkon USA, a defence manufacturing firm based in Garland, Texas. U.S. officials added that part of the bomb supply would be transferred directly from existing American military stockpiles.
The State Department noted that the proposed sale includes additional programme support elements such as engineering assistance, logistical services and other technical arrangements required for the deployment and maintenance of the munitions.
The approval comes at a time of escalating military tensions in the Middle East, with the United States and its allies increasing security cooperation with Israel amid concerns over regional stability and emerging threats.
