The Biden administration has been sending large quantities of munitions to Israel since the start of the war in Gaza, according to two US officials briefed on the matter. The shipments include more than 10,000 highly destructive 2,000-pound bombs and thousands of Hellfire missiles. This military support has continued despite international calls to limit weapons supplies.
Replenishing Supplies for Ongoing Conflict
The transfers of at least 14,000 MK-84 2,000-pound bombs, 6,500 500-pound bombs, 3,000 Hellfire missiles, and other munitions have been ongoing since the conflict began last October. Experts believe that these shipments are consistent with what Israel would need to replenish supplies used in the intense military campaign in Gaza. The weapons sent by the United States are the type that Israel would use in its fight against Hamas or in a potential conflict with Hezbollah.
Concerns of Escalation
Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah have been engaged in hostilities since the start of the Gaza war. There is growing concern that this could escalate into an all-out war between the two sides. The White House declined to comment on the shipments, and Israel’s Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Biden Administration’s Stance
The Biden administration has sent $6.5 billion worth of weapons to Israel since October 7. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed that Washington was withholding weapons, US officials have denied this claim. The administration did pause one shipment of 2,000-pound bombs due to concerns over their impact in densely populated areas in Gaza. However, all other arms deliveries have continued as normal.
International Scrutiny
The international community has been closely monitoring Israel’s military operation in Gaza, which has resulted in a high Palestinian death toll and left the enclave in ruins. The United States provides $3.8 billion in annual military assistance to Israel. President Biden has warned that he would place conditions on military aid if Israel fails to protect civilians and allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Political Ramifications
Biden’s support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas has become a political liability, particularly among young Democrats. This support has led to protests and criticism from pro-Palestinian groups. While the US provides detailed information about military aid sent to Ukraine, details about weapons and munitions sent to Israel are less transparent.
Ongoing Support
The Pentagon has confirmed that it has sufficient quantities of weapons in its own stocks and is working with US industry partners to manufacture more weapons for Israel. The shipments are part of arms sales approved by Congress years ago but are only now being fulfilled.
In conclusion, the ongoing shipments of munitions from the United States to Israel highlight the complex dynamics of the conflict in Gaza. The Biden administration’s support for Israel has faced scrutiny and criticism, but the military aid continues to flow as both sides navigate a delicate and volatile situation.