The US State Department has approved a $20 billion arms sale to Israel

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has approved a $20 billion arms sale to Israel, including 50 F-15 fighter jets, transport vehicles, medium-range missiles and tank and mortar munitions, the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency said.

“The United States is committed to Israel's security, and it is vital to our national interests to help Israel develop and maintain its capabilities for a strong and ready self-defense. The proposed sale is consistent with these goals," the statement said.

It said the proposed sale would "strengthen Israel's ability to counter threats from current and future enemies, its territorial defenses and serve as a deterrent to regional threats," while it would "not change the underlying military balance of power in the region."

The media also note that the information about the deal appeared against the background of increasing tensions in the Middle East.