
The United States has approved a significant arms transfer to Israel, including bombs and fighter jets valued at billions of dollars, The Washington Post reported. This move comes despite public expressions of concern from the US over the potential Israeli offensive in Gaza’s Rafah and the escalation of civilian casualties in the region. The arms deal features over 1,800 MK84 2,000-pound bombs and 500 MK82 500-pound bombs, a decision that contrasts with calls for ceasefire and the provision of humanitarian aid to the war-affected Gaza Strip.
The delivery occurs amidst strained relations between the Israeli and US governments and ongoing international criticism of the proposed ground invasion of Rafah by Israel. Critiques from US senators and international figures like Bernie Sanders and Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi highlight the perceived contradiction in the US’s stance of advocating for peace while supplying Israel with weaponry. Despite these tensions and calls for a reevaluation of military support to Israel, the White House has refrained from commenting on the arms transfer, even as President Joe Biden acknowledges the conflict’s toll on Arab Americans and continues to pledge support for Israel.–News Desk