U.S. Approves Increased Arms Supply to Israel

By Yoni Weiss

The United States has given the green light for the transfer of billions of dollars’ worth of bombs and fighter jets to Israel, according to two sources familiar with the matter on Friday. This decision comes at a time when Washington has publicly voiced concerns about a potential Israeli military offensive in Rafah.

The new arms packages consist of more than 1,800 MK84 2,000-pound bombs and 500 MK82 500-pound bombs, as reported by the sources, confirming an article in the Washington Post.

Annually, Washington provides $3.8 billion in military assistance to Israel, its long-standing ally. This move occurs amidst Israel facing intense international criticism for its ongoing bombing campaign and ground offensive in Gaza, with some members of President Joe Biden’s party urging him to cut U.S. military aid.

Despite acknowledging “the pain being felt” by many Arab-Americans over the Gaza conflict and U.S. support for Israel, Biden has pledged continued backing for Israel despite growing tensions with Prime Minister Binyamin 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 send weapons follows Defense Minister Yoav Gallant’s visit to Washington this week, during which he discussed Israel’s weaponry requirements with U.S. counterparts.

Gallant, addressing reporters on Tuesday, appeared to aim at easing tensions between the U.S. and Israel, emphasizing the significance of U.S .ties to Israel’s security and the necessity of maintaining Israel’s “qualitative military edge” in the region, particularly its air capabilities.