In recent days, the United States has authorized the transfer of billions of dollars worth of bombs and fighter jets to Israel, according to two sources familiar with the effort. This decision comes even as Washington publicly expresses concerns about an anticipated Israeli military offensive in Rafah.
The new arms packages reportedly include more than 1,800 MK84 2,000-pound bombs and 500 MK82 500-pound bombs, as confirmed by the sources, who cited a report in the Washington Post.
As a longtime ally of Israel, the United States provides $3.8 billion in annual military assistance. However, this move comes at a time when Israel faces strong international criticism over its ongoing bombing campaign and ground offensive in Gaza. Some members of President Joe Biden’s party are calling for a cut in US military aid to Israel.
Despite acknowledging the concerns expressed by many Arab Americans over the conflict in Gaza and US support for Israel, President Biden has vowed to continue backing Israel. This commitment remains steadfast despite an increasingly public rift with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The White House declined to comment on the weapons transfers, while the Israeli embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The decision to transfer weapons follows a recent visit to Washington by Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, during which he discussed Israel’s weapons needs with US counterparts. Gallant emphasized the importance of US ties to Israel’s security and the maintenance of its “qualitative military edge” in the region, including its air capabilities.
In the midst of these developments, Israel and Hamas are preparing for another round of mediated negotiations in Qatar. Hamas has accused the Netanyahu-led government of policies that are causing harm to captives in besieged Gaza. Hamas released posters depicting Israeli captives experiencing similar dire conditions to Palestinians in the enclave, highlighting the impact of Netanyahu’s policies.
