Washington: Fierce fighting continues between Israel and Hamas in many parts of Gaza. The death toll in the Gaza war has reached close to 40 thousand. Meanwhile, the US has approved a $20 billion arms package for Israel. The big thing is that the administration of US President Joe Biden has approved this package, ignoring the pressure of humanitarian workers. However, it will take many years for the weapons to reach Israel.

Sale of 50 F-15 fighter jets approved

The deal comes as President Biden has pressured Israel and Hamas to reach a ceasefire after 10 months of bloodshed. In a notification issued to Congress, the State Department said the US has approved the sale of 50 F-15 fighter jets to Israel for $18.82 billion. Israel will also buy about 33,000 tank cartridges, 50,000 explosive mortar cartridges and new military cargo vehicles.

America is committed to Israel's security

The State Department said in its notice on the F-15 that the United States is committed to Israel's security, and assisting Israel in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability is vital to US national interests. Deliveries of the F-15 aircraft will begin in 2029. The aircraft will upgrade Israel's current fleet and include radar and secure communications equipment.

93 people killed in Israeli air strike

On Saturday, rescue workers in Hamas-run territory said an Israeli airstrike on a school housing displaced Palestinians killed 93 people. Israel said it targeted active militants.

Biden administration officials expressed concern over the deaths of civilians. At least 39,929 people have been killed in Israel's retaliatory military attacks in Gaza

Human rights groups and some left-leaning members of Biden's Democratic Party have urged the administration to curb or stop arms sales to Israel. Congress can still block arms sales, but such a process is difficult.