The White House has informed Congress of its intention to send over $1 billion in weapons to Israel, including tank rounds, mortars, and armored tactical vehicles, according to officials. This move comes after President Joe Biden recently stated that he would halt weapons shipments to Israel if a major invasion of the Gaza city of Rafah were to occur.
Israeli tanks have reportedly advanced deeper into residential areas of south-eastern Rafah, raising concerns about the escalating conflict. President Biden had previously delayed the shipment of 2,000lb bombs to Israel due to fears of civilian casualties in Gaza.
The proposed weapons package, which still requires approval from lawmakers, includes $700 million in tank ammunition, $500 million in tactical vehicles, and $60 million in mortar rounds. This marks the first arms transfer to Israel since the Biden administration paused such shipments last week.
The news of the weapons package comes amidst a backdrop of political tensions surrounding US support for Israel. A recent US State Department report found that some American-made weapons provided to Israel may have been used in breach of international law, although it did not definitively accuse the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) of violating international law.
Congress recently passed a bill providing $95 billion in aid to Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan, further highlighting the complex dynamics at play in US foreign policy. The issue of weapons transfers to Israel has become a contentious topic for President Biden, particularly as the 2024 White House election approaches.
Republican lawmakers have introduced legislation to prevent any further pauses in weapons shipments to Israel, with the House of Representatives set to vote on a measure requiring the prompt delivery of military equipment. However, the White House has indicated it would veto the bill if it were to pass the Senate.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in significant casualties, with over 35,000 people killed in Gaza since the military campaign began. The situation remains volatile, with both sides engaged in a deadly cycle of violence that shows no signs of abating.
