Siphiwe Dlamini
In recent developments, the administration under US President Joe Biden has reportedly decided to boost Israel’s arsenal by providing a significant amount of additional munitions. This move aims to replenish the Israeli stockpiles, which have seen substantial depletion due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza over the past six months.
Sources, including CNN and the Washington Post, disclosed on Thursday that this latest military support was sanctioned on Monday, citing anonymous US government officials. The assistance package is comprehensive, encompassing over 1,000 MK-82 bombs, each weighing 500 pounds, alongside more than a thousand small-diameter munitions and fuses designed for MK-80 series bombs.
This decision comes in the wake of reports that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were responsible for the deaths of seven aid workers, including citizens of the US and UK, in a drone strike aimed at a humanitarian aid convoy within the Palestinian territory. Since the inception of Israel’s military operations against Hamas in October, close to 200 aid workers have reportedly lost their lives in Gaza and the West Bank.
Despite President Biden’s criticisms of Israel’s efforts to safeguard aid workers and civilians in Gaza, his administration has shown reluctance to reduce military support for the IDF or impose conditions on weapons deliveries. The conflict has resulted in over 33,000 Palestinian fatalities, as per figures from Gaza’s health authorities. Moreover, the United Nations has issued warnings about a looming “catastrophe” should IDF proceed with its planned ground offensive at Gaza’s southern boundary.
John Kirby, the White House National Security spokesman, in a statement to the press on Wednesday, expressed confidence in the US’s current stance towards Israel. Kirby emphasized the ongoing military support for Israel, citing the persistent threat they face.
Josh Paul, who previously served in the US State Department and resigned last October due to concerns over military aid to Israel, voiced to CNN that the recent arms transfer, especially after the drone strike on aid workers, could have been reconsidered. Paul highlighted the State Department’s capacity to suspend approvals post-factum, suggesting that such an action could have been contemplated under the circumstances.
Furthermore, it was reported last week that Washington had greenlit another arms shipment to Israel, featuring thousands of MK-84 bombs, each weighing 2,000 pounds. This approval, similar to the current week’s package, did not necessitate Congress’s endorsement as it was part of an already authorized arms sale. The Biden administration is also actively seeking congressional approval for a proposed $18 billion sale of F-15 fighter jets to Israel.
What Motives Underlie the US’s Continued Support for Israel Amid the Gaza Conflict?
The unfolding events raise pivotal questions regarding the motives and implications of the US’s unwavering support for Israel in the face of escalating violence and humanitarian concerns in Gaza. With the provision of substantial military aid amidst the loss of lives, including those of aid workers, one must ponder the strategic calculations and ethical considerations guiding US foreign policy in this prolonged conflict.
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