Israel says it has secured $11.1b US aid package
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Israel is currently fighting on two fronts, against Palestinian Islamist group Hamas in Gaza and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement in Lebanon.
PHOTO: REUTERS
JERUSALEM - Israel said on Sept 26 it had secured an US$8.7 billion (S$11.1 billion) aid package from the United States to support its ongoing military efforts and to maintain a qualitative military edge in the region.
The package comprises US$3.5 billion for essential wartime procurement, which has already been received and earmarked for critical military purchases, and US$5.2 billion designated for air defence systems including the Iron Dome anti-missile system, David's Sling and an advanced laser system.
Israel is currently fighting on two fronts, against Palestinian Islamist group Hamas in Gaza and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement in Lebanon.
The aid announcement came after negotiations at the Pentagon between Mr Eyal Zamir, the director-general of Israel's Defence Ministry, and US defence officials, including Acting Undersecretary of Defence for Policy Amanda Dory, Israel's Defence Ministry said in a statement.
"This substantial investment will significantly strengthen critical systems such as Iron Dome and David's Sling, while supporting the continued development of an advanced high-powered laser defence system currently in its later stages of development," it said.
The ministry said the deal underscores the "strong and enduring strategic partnership between Israel and the United States and the ironclad commitment to Israel's security", particularly in addressing regional security threats from Iran and Iranian-backed militias. REUTERS
