US arms 'Israel' ahead of possible confrontation with Iran
"Israel" is replenishing weapons stockpiles and receiving US arms shipments, including bunker-busting bombs, amid rising tensions with Iran and stalled nuclear talks.
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President Donald Trump, left, shakes hands with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he leaves the West Wing of the White House, Monday, April 7, 2025, in Washington (AP)
The Israeli Air Force is actively restocking its ammunition depots as the United States transfers military supplies via an established air bridge, Maariv reported on Wednesday.
The preparations come amid growing uncertainty over nuclear negotiations with Iran and the increasing likelihood of a military strike if diplomatic efforts fail.
According to the report, "Israel" recently received bunker-buster bombs and other heavy munitions weighing up to 1.5 tons. These shipments arrived by cargo ship several weeks ago. In addition, the US has provided JDAM kits, systems that convert unguided bombs into precision-guided munitions, delivered to Nevatim Air Base from US military depots across Europe and other regions.
A senior official in the arms industry said the shipments were made at the request of the Israeli Ministry of Security to replenish the Air Force’s emergency stockpiles. "Israel" has also requested other types of advanced weaponry, including missiles and NOREM thermal protection systems designed to shield aircraft from shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles.
The occupation's aerial capabilities were further reinforced by the deployment of THAAD missile systems. One such system was reportedly used this week to intercept missiles launched from Yemen toward occupied territory.
Dozens of US Hercules and cargo planes have landed at Nevatim and Ben Gurion airports in recent weeks to facilitate the deliveries.
Expanded stockpiles, arms deals signal strategic shift
Analysts suggest that the replenishment of "Israel’s" stockpiles may enable it to escalate its brutal war in Gaza and prepare for potential conflict with Iran if current negotiations with the US break down.
The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency previously confirmed that the US State Department had approved a $7.41 billion arms package for "Israel", which includes guided bombs and high-tech equipment “to support Tel Aviv’s defense capabilities.”
Congress was notified of the agreement, which covers the purchase of 3,000 Hellfire (AGM-114) missiles and more than 2,000 precision-guided bombs.
This follows a similar $7.41 billion deal approved earlier, bringing the total value of US military sales to over $8 billion since the start of the year.