Israel's defence ministry said on Thursday it had secured an $8.7 billion aid package from the United States to support the country's ongoing military efforts, including upgrading air defence systems.

The announcement came as Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas hit out at Washington in his address to the UN General Assembly in New York, accusing it of providing Israel with the “deadly weapons that it used to kill thousands of innocent civilians, children and women”.

“The package includes $3.5 billion for essential wartime procurement … and $5.2 billion designated for air defence systems, including the Iron Dome, David’s Sling and an advanced laser system,” the ministry said in a statement.

Some $3.5 billion had already been received “for critical acquisitions”, it said.