In a huge addition to the strength of its signature Middle Eastern ally, the Trump administration formally notified Congress on January 30, 2026, of its approval of a gargantuan $6.67 billion arms package for Israel. The deal which includes sophisticated attack helicopters and thousands of tactical vehicles comes after tensions in the region have intensified and amid a drive by the administration to get the Gaza ceasefire and reconstruction plan implemented.
A Breakdown of the $6.67 Billion Package
The sale is made in four packages aimed at growing IDF operational reach and defensive capabilities:
- Apache Attack Helicopters ($3.8 Billion): The key component selling is 30 AH-64 Apache attack helicopters. These devices will feature advanced targeting systems and rocket launchers, a move that would almost double Israel’s current footprint of Apache.
- Light Tactical Vehicles ($1.98 Billion): The equipment includes 3,250 light tactical vehicles that aim to modernize the IDF’s logistics and broaden lines of communication in on-the-ground operations.
- Upgrades for Armored Personnel Carrier ($740 Million): It includes funds for power packs and for sustainment for armored personnel carriers that have been in service since 2008.
- Utility Helicopters ($150 Million): A smaller portion of the deal covers light utility helicopters supporting established search-and-rescue and transport equipment.
Strategic Context: Iran and the Ceasefire in Gaza
The sale, it was portrayed by the State Department as important for Israel's Qualitative Military Edge (QME). According to formal statements, the administration, among other things, said the equipment would "enhance Israel's ability to defend its borders, vital infrastructure, and population" without changing the military balance in particular.
The timing of the announcement is significant by those two reasons:
- Curtailing Interest of Iran: The sale comes against an ongoing backdrop of strong rhetoric about the possibility of U.S. or allied attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.
- The Gaza Reconstruction Plan: Trump has also pushed a dual-track agenda: providing massive military assistance while negotiating a multi-faceted plan to rebuild and redevelop Palestinian property in the face of two years of destructive violence.
Congressional Pushback
Some Democratic lawmakers were already sharply critical of that move. Rep. Gregory Meeks, a Democrat who was the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s ranking member, accused the administration of flatly ignoring the long held congressional power by announcing the sale in the latter part of a Friday, without sufficient discussion of U.S.-Israel policy.
The process of “Major Foreign Military Sale,” despite the friction, is anticipated to progress with deliveries expected to take place over the next 24 to 36 months.
