The Biden administration has announced plans to send over $1 billion in arms and ammunition to Israel amidst escalating tensions. This move comes as the White House opposes a House bill that would mandate the delivery of offensive weapons to the region.
Key lawmakers have been informed of the administration’s decision to provide additional military support to Israel, including tank ammunition, tactical vehicles, and mortar rounds. This arms shipment, however, is separate from the long-delayed foreign aid package recently passed by Congress.
This announcement follows a recent pause in an arms transfer, which included 3,500 bombs, due to concerns about civilian casualties in Gaza. The Biden administration cited the need to prevent the use of certain munitions in offensive operations in Rafah, a densely populated area in Gaza.
The decision has sparked criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. Some Democrats have urged limitations on offensive weapons transfers to pressure Israel to protect Palestinian civilians, while Republicans argue that reducing support weakens Israel’s ability to defend against Hamas and other Iran-backed groups.
Despite the tensions and criticism, the Biden administration remains committed to providing military aid to Israel. National security spokesman John Kirby emphasized the administration’s stance on ensuring Israel’s defense capabilities against all threats, including Hamas.
In response to the House bill mandating offensive weapons delivery, the White House has threatened to veto the legislation. While the bill faces challenges in the Democratic-controlled Senate, House Democrats are divided on the issue, with some expressing concerns about the message sent by the pause in bomb shipments.
Sources By Agencies
