In response to growing concerns about a potential Israeli military offensive in Gaza’s Rafah region, the United States has approved the transfer of significant military assets to its ally, Israel. The Biden administration has greenlit the transfer of 2,000 bombs and 25 F-35 fighter jets, valued at billions of dollars.
This decision, reported by The Washington Post, underscores the Biden administration’s stance despite expressing apprehensions about the looming military action by Israeli forces in Rafah.
The arms package includes over 1,800 MK84 2,000-pound bombs, 500 MK82 500-pound bombs, and 25 F-35 fighter jets. Notably, the approval for the F-35s was part of a broader package sanctioned by the US Congress back in 2008.
Neither the White House nor the Israeli embassy in Washington has provided immediate comments on the transfers.
This move follows international condemnation of Israel’s previous offensive in the Gaza Strip, triggered by a Hamas attack on southern Israel in October last year. The conflict has resulted in a significant loss of life, with over 32,000 casualties reported by the Palestinian health ministry.
In a related development, the US abstained from voting on a resolution on March 25, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Israel criticized this abstention, accusing the US of deviating from its UN policy.
Amidst these developments, some members of President Joe Biden’s Democratic Party have urged a reevaluation of US military aid to Israel.
President Biden has acknowledged the concerns expressed by many Arab Americans regarding the situation in Gaza and US support for Israel’s military actions. This acknowledgment comes amidst growing discontent among Arabs, Muslims, and anti-war activists over US policies in the region.