The U.S. has just released a whopping $3.5 billion to Israel for military equipment and weapons, according to the State Department's announcement on Friday. 💸🔫
This significant funding comes months after Congress approved the funds amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict, highlighting the escalating tensions in the Middle East.
A State Department spokesperson confirmed that Congress was notified on Thursday about the government’s move to release the funds as part of a larger $14 billion supplemental bill passed in April. 📜🇺🇸
The region has been on edge with fears of the Israel-Hamas conflict spreading, having already resulted in tens of thousands of casualties and a severe humanitarian crisis. The situation intensified after the killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut, sparking threats of retaliation against Israel. ⚔️🔥
Since the devastating attack by Hamas on October 7, which resulted in the loss of 1,200 lives and about 250 hostages, the Gaza Health Ministry reports nearly 40,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israel’s military operations. Additionally, almost the entire population of 2.3 million has been displaced, leading to a hunger crisis and accusations of genocide, which Israel denies. 😔🕊️
As the conflict continues to unfold, the international community watches closely, hoping for peace and stability in the region. 🌏✌️
