The first U.S. shipment of advanced weaponry arrived in Israel on Tuesday, fulfilling the Biden administration’s promise of backing the nation in its war against Hamas.
Israel Defense Force (IDF) spokesperson Daniel Hagari said the first plane carrying advanced ammunition landed in Israel’s Nebatim Air Base late Tuesday night, according to a post on X, formerly Twitter. Hagari said the weapons will “enable significant strikes and preparations for additional scenarios.”
“We are grateful for the American support and assistance to the IDF in particular, and to the State of Israel in general, during this challenging period,” Hagari said. “Our common enemies know that the cooperation between the armies is stronger than ever, and is a key part of ensuring regional security and stability.”
President Biden has vowed to support Israel in the wake of the attacks launched by Hamas over the weekend.
“In this moment we must be crystal clear: We stand with Israel,” Biden said in remarks from the State Dining Room on Tuesday. “And we will make sure Israel has what it needs to take care of its citizens, defend itself and respond to this attack. There’s no justification for terrorism. There’s no excuse.”
The administration also announced the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group has arrived in the eastern Mediterranean Sea as an act of deterrence against actors looking to escalate or widen the conflict between Israel and Hamas. It has also moved U.S. Air Force F-15s, F-16s and A-10s “to augment existing fighter squadrons in the region.”
More than 1,000 Israelis and Palestinians have been killed in the conflict, along with 14 U.S. citizens, as of Tuesday. American citizens also are among those being held hostage by Hamas, the White House has confirmed.