News Brief
US President Joe Biden with Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu
In a recent development, the United States has authorized the transfer of significant military equipment, including bombs and fighter jets, to Israel.
This decision comes amid concerns about a potential military offensive in Rafah.
As reported by The Times Of Israel, the package includes 1,800 MK-84 2,000-pound bombs, 500 MK-82 500-pound bombs, and 25 F-35 fighter jets.
The move follows international criticism of Israel's offensive in Gaza in response to a Hamas attack last October.
Despite this criticism, the US has continued its support for Israel, which includes $3.8 billion in annual military assistance.
Talking to The Washington Post, a White House official said, “We have continued to support Israel’s right to defend itself. Conditioning aid has not been our policy.”
On Friday (29 March), Biden acknowledged “the pain being felt” by many Arab Americans over the war in Gaza and over US support for Israel and its military offensive.
Despite this, the president vowed continued support for Israel.
Meanwhile, Israel provided assurances to the US regarding the use of American weapons and compliance with international law.
Also noteworthy is the fact that the announcement came on the same day that the US abstained from a vote at the United Nations Security Council calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of the hostages taken on 7 October, without linking the two issues.
However, the resolution, backed by Russia and China, passed with 14 votes.
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