US to Release $3.5 Billion Military Aid to Israel

August 10, 2024

The U.S. State Department announced the release of $3.5 billion in military assistance to Israel after Congress approved the funds amidst rising tensions due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This money is part of a larger $14 billion supplemental bill that was passed in April 2023.

Key Details of the Funding

Amount: The $3.5 billion is specifically set aside for military financing.
Purpose: The funds are to be used to buy U.S.-made weapons and military equipment.
Congressional Approval: The U.S. Congress approved this funding while Israel was actively engaged in military action in Gaza.

Background of the Conflict

Tensions in the Middle East escalated after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in heavy casualties on both sides:

Israeli Casualties: Around 1,200 Israelis were killed, and approximately 250 were taken hostage.
Palestinian Casualties: The Israeli military response has led to nearly 40,000 Palestinian deaths.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The ongoing conflict has caused a severe humanitarian crisis:

Displacement: Nearly the entire population of Gaza, about 2.3 million people, has been displaced.
Hunger Crisis: There are widespread food shortages, and Israel has been accused of genocide, which the Israeli government denies.

About Israel

Established in 1948, Israel is the only country with a majority Jewish population. It has a high number of museums per capita, innovative technology, and agriculture sectors, and its capital is Jerusalem. Israel was named after the biblical patriarch Jacob and is home to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth.

About Gaza

Gaza is one of the world’s oldest inhabited areas, dating back to at least the 15th century BCE. It is densely populated, with over 5,000 people per square kilometer. Known for its history and agriculture, particularly olive and citrus production, Gaza’s economy has struggled due to conflicts and blockades. The Gaza Strip is about 41 kilometers long and was occupied by Israel until 2005 when Israel withdrew from the area.

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