Washington, DC – The White House has approved the transfer of $2.5 billion worth of warplanes and weapons to Israel, as reported by The Washington Post. This decision comes amidst growing concerns regarding the potential Israeli invasion of Gaza’s Rafah and the escalating civilian casualties in the region.
According to Pentagon and Department of State officials, the arms package includes over 1,800 MK84 2,000-pound bombs and 500 MK82 500-pound bombs. These bombs have been linked to previous mass-casualty events during Israel’s military operations in Gaza. The United States provides $3.8 billion in annual military assistance to Israel, its longtime ally.
Despite public pressure to halt hostilities in the five-month war, the US continues to supply weapons to Israel. The transfer of $2.5 billion worth of warplanes and weapons reflects a growing rift between the Israeli and US governments. This move has sparked criticism and calls for a reevaluation of US-Israel relations.
In light of the impending ground invasion of Rafah by Israel, calls to cut military aid to Israel until humanitarian aid access is ensured for Gaza have intensified. Many countries and rights groups are urging Israel to comply with an International Court of Justice order to allow unimpeded aid delivery into Gaza, where famine is becoming a pressing issue.
Critics, including US Senator Bernie Sanders, have condemned the decision to provide more weapons to Israel amidst the ongoing conflict. The White House has refrained from commenting on the weapons transfers, further fueling debate over the US’s role in the conflict and its support for Israel.
Amidst calls for the international community to stop supplying weapons to Israel, President Joe Biden has affirmed continued support for Israel. However, the rift between the US and Israeli governments over military operations in Gaza highlights the complexities of the situation and the challenges in achieving peace and stability in the region.
The decision to provide significant military aid to Israel underscores the need for a reevaluation of US foreign policy and its adherence to human rights laws. As tensions rise and civilian casualties mount, the role of the US as a moral authority in the world is called into question. The ongoing conflicts in Gaza and the transfer of warplanes and weapons to Israel raise concerns about the US’s commitment to upholding human rights and promoting peace in the region.