Despite Biden’s pause on bombs over Rafah assault, a $1bn military aid package is planned for Israel, including tank ammunition and tactical vehicles.
The Biden administration intends to send $1bn in military aid to Israel, reported by media sources, despite concerns over civilian casualties and opposition to a full-scale invasion of Rafah in southern Gaza.
The US Department of State has moved the package into the congressional review process, including $700m for tank ammunition, $500m for tactical vehicles, and $60m for mortar rounds.
The recent request for lethal weapons transfer comes after Biden paused a bomb shipment due to worries over Israel’s offensive in Rafah, causing half a million people to flee.
The package is seen as a long-term commitment to supplying weaponry to Israel, independent of the current situation in Gaza, according to Al Jazeera’s Shihab Rattansi.
Despite international law concerns regarding US-supplied weapons usage by Israeli forces, Washington’s military aid is set to continue.
Rafah invasion
Biden’s decision to delay bomb shipments reflects the US stance against using such weapons in densely populated areas like Rafah, urging safeguards for civilians in the conflict.
Continued military operations in Gaza by Israel have led to further displacement and casualties, emphasizing the ongoing crisis and the need for international intervention.