US Secretary of State fast-tracks $4B military aid to Israel
What's the story
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has signed a declaration to fast-track some $4 billion in military aid to Israel, Reuters reported. The move reverses a partial arms embargo imposed during former President Joe Biden's tenure. Rubio reaffirmed the Trump administration's commitment to ensuring Israel's security, saying they will "continue to use all available tools" to address potential threats.
Aid details
Trump administration approves nearly $12 billion in military sales
Since President Donald Trump took office on January 20, the US has approved nearly $12 billion in foreign military sales to Israel. This includes a recent state department approval for a $3 billion sale of bombs and other military equipment, the Pentagon revealed. Rubio's declaration paves the way for expedited delivery of this aid by bypassing the usual congressional review process.
Process bypassed
Rubio's declaration bypasses usual congressional review process
The declaration signed by Rubio allows fast-tracking military aid on an emergency basis. This way, the usual process of chairs and ranking members of foreign relations committees in the House and Senate reviewing potential arms sales before formally notifying Congress is avoided. This isn't a new tactic, as it was used by both the previous Trump and Biden administrations to expedite assistance to Israel.
Order revoked
Trump administration revokes Biden-era order
Along with fast-tracking military aid, the Trump administration has also revoked a Biden-era order. The previous order mandated reports on potential violations of international law involving US-supplied weapons used by allies such as Israel. This is the second time the Trump administration has expedited assistance to Israel using this method.