US gives Israel $3.5 billion to spend on American arms and military equipment

(Patria) - Washington will give Israel $3.5 billion to spend on American arms and military equipment, releasing the funds months after they were approved by the US Congress, CNN reported on Friday, citing sources familiar with the matter, Reuters reported.

The State Department informed lawmakers on Thursday evening that the government intends to release billions of dollars in military funding to Israel, CNN reported, adding that the money comes from an additional $14.1 billion in funding for Israel passed in April.

The move comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and fears of the spread of Israel's war in Gaza, which has already killed tens of thousands of people and caused a humanitarian crisis.

An increased risk of escalation into a wider Middle East war has emerged after the recent killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut prompted threats of retaliation against Israel.