US Muslim group slams $8.6 billion F-15 jet deal for Israel

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the largest US Muslim civil rights organization, has issued a forceful condemnation of the Pentagon's $8.6 billion contract with Boeing to supply Israel with new F-15 fighter jets. In a statement on Tuesday, CAIR National Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell described the massive defense deal as "morally indefensible" given the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

A 'Reward for Genocide' Amid Ongoing Conflict

Mitchell argued that the timing of the contract approval is particularly egregious. "At a time when human rights organizations around the world are condemning the Israeli government’s ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people, the Pentagon’s decision to funnel billions of American taxpayer dollars and advanced weaponry to the Israeli military is morally indefensible," he stated. He characterized the agreement as a "reward for genocide, paid for by American taxpayers" that signals financial benefits can flow despite alleged human rights abuses.

Details of the Major Arms Agreement

The Pentagon announced the contract on Monday, following a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida. The contract formalizes the "F-15 Israel Program," providing for the design, integration, production, and delivery of 25 new F-15IA advanced aircraft for the Israeli Air Force. It includes an option for Israel to purchase an additional 25 jets, potentially doubling the scope and value of the agreement. Netanyahu also held separate talks with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during his visit.

Calls for Policy Change and Accountability

CAIR used its condemnation to call for a significant shift in US foreign policy. Mitchell urged the US government to immediately halt all arms transfers to Israel, demand accountability for how previous military aid has been used, and actively pursue what he termed a "just and lasting peace." The deal highlights the deep domestic divisions in the United States over its military and diplomatic support for Israel, a point of policy that continues to be scrutinized by international partners and human rights advocates globally.