The US Delays Supply of Powerful Bombs to Israel Over Concerns of Civilian Casualties in Gaza
The United States has agreed to resume the shipment of 500-pound bombs to Israel while withholding the supply of 2,000-pound bombs over worries that they may be used in densely populated areas of Gaza. The decision to halt the shipment of the larger bombs came after concerns were raised about their potential impact during Israel’s recent ground invasion in Rafah, where many Palestinian civilians sought refuge.
While a 500-pound bomb can cause significant damage within a 20-meter blast radius, the 2,000-pound bomb has a destruction radius of 35 meters. The US official explained that the focus was on preventing the use of the larger bombs in Rafah and other parts of Gaza.
Despite the delay in transferring the 2,000-pound bombs, Israel continues to receive a steady flow of other US weaponry since the conflict began in October. Concerns over civilian casualties and the destruction in Gaza have led to increased international scrutiny of Israel’s military actions in the region.
Israel’s Relations with the US on Weapons Supply
Israeli officials have addressed concerns over delays in weapon supplies, with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant commenting on progress made in resolving the issue. While tensions remain over the use of certain weaponry, the US and Israel are still navigating their relationship in the midst of ongoing conflict in Gaza.