The Biden administration has reportedly authorized a major arms transfer to Israel, drawing criticism amid escalating tensions in the region.
Despite growing international concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Washington has reportedly given the go-ahead for the transfer of new weapons, including 2,000-pound “dumb” bombs and advanced fighter jets.
According to State Department and Defense Department sources who spoke to The Washington Post, the approved arsenal includes the deadly 2,000-pound MK84 and 500-pound MK82 bombs. In addition, the State Department reportedly approved the transfer of 25 F-35A fighter jets and engines worth approximately $2.5 billion.
The decision sparked outrage, with Senator Bernie Sanders denouncing the move as “obscene”. Sanders criticized the administration’s inconsistency and highlighted the paradox of asking for a cease-fire while simultaneously supplying weapons capable of devastating civilian infrastructure.
The secret arms transfer comes amid strained relations between the Biden administration and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Despite recent public disagreements, including Netanyahu’s rebuke of the US stance at the UN Security Council, the Biden administration appears undeterred by its commitment to bolstering Israel’s military capabilities.
But the arms transfer has raised legal concerns, with several Democratic senators pointing out that current US law prohibits arms sales to countries that block US humanitarian aid. There were urgent calls for President Biden to reconsider the situation and halt further arms sales to Tel Aviv.
Meanwhile, Israel’s offensive in Gaza continues unabated, with Prime Minister Netanyahu vowing to escalate operations in the southern city of Rafah. The conflict, now in its 175th day, has resulted in staggering casualties and widespread destruction, prompting international calls for intervention.
