The new arms packages include over 2,300 pounds of bombs, and the US provides Israel with $3.8 billion in annual military assistance.

This sale comes amid international criticism of Israel's bombing campaign and ground offensive in Gaza, and calls from some US Democrats to cut military aid.

The Biden administration is sending air defenses and munitions to Israel amid criticism from Democrats and Arab American groups over US support for Israel's military offensive in Gaza.

Some feel this support gives Israel a sense of impunity.

Despite tensions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden has pledged continued support.

The White House and Israeli embassy declined to comment on the weapons transfers, which followed a visit by Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to discuss weapons needs with US counterparts.

On Tuesday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's special envoy to the Middle East, Robert Gallant, spoke to reporters about the importance of US-Israeli relations and maintaining Israel's military edge in the region during a time of heightened tensions.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began on October 7, 2021, resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 people and the seizure of 253 hostages according to Israeli reports.

In response, Israel launched an air and ground assault on Hamas in the Gaza Strip, resulting in over 32,000 deaths according to Gaza health authorities.

Gallant emphasized the significance of US ties to Israel's security and the need to preserve Israel's qualitative military edge in the region.