Israel said on Thursday night that it had received an aid package worth $8.7 billion from the United States to support its current war efforts. The package includes $3.5 billion allocated for basic purchases related to the war effort that Israel has already received and allocated for important military purchases, and $5.2 billion allocated for air defense systems, including the Iron Dome anti-missile system and an advanced laser system. The Israeli Ministry of Defense said in a statement that the announcement of the aid came after negotiations at the US Department of Defense (Pentagon) between Eyal Zamir, Director General of the Israeli Ministry of Defense, and American defense officials, including Acting Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Amanda Dory. It added: "This important investment will significantly enhance vital systems such as the Iron Dome and David's Sling while supporting the continued development of a powerful laser defense system in an advanced development stage." The ministry said the a greement confirms "the strong and enduring strategic partnership between Israel and the United States and the firm commitment to Israel's security. Source: National Iraqi News Agency