The United States has reportedly approved the transfer of billions of dollars worth of bombs and fighter jets to Israel, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The authorization comes despite Washington's public expressions of concern regarding an anticipated Israeli military offensive in Rafah.
US Reportedly Funds Billions of Dollars Worth of Bombs
The arms packages include a significant number of MK-84 2,000lb bombs and MK-82 500lb bombs, as reported by the Washington Post. This transfer adds to the substantial annual military assistance of $3.8 billion that the US provides to Israel, according to The Guardian.
Israel's ongoing bombing campaign and ground offensive in Gaza have drawn strong international criticism, leading some members of the Democratic Party to call for a reduction in US military aid.
However, the Biden administration has reaffirmed its support for Israel despite growing tensions between President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
US-Israel Ties
The decision to transfer weapons follows discussions between Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and US counterparts during Gallant's visit to Washington. Gallant emphasized the significance of US-Israeli ties for Israel's security and the maintenance of its military superiority in the region.
However, neither the White House nor the Israeli embassy in Washington has commented on the weapons transfers.
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