An American official revealed that the Biden administration will resume the shipment of 500-pound bombs to Israel, while continuing to postpone the delivery of 2,000-pound bombs. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stated, "We made it clear that our concern is focused on the use of the 2,000-pound bombs, especially regarding Israel's operation in Rafah, which they say they are about to conclude," according to Reuters. A single 2,000-pound bomb can penetrate thick layers of concrete and metal, resulting in a wide-radius explosion.
The official further clarified that the 500-pound bombs had been bundled in the same shipment as the larger bombs, which were temporarily suspended, leading to a halt in the process. He added, "Our primary concern has been and remains the potential use of 2,000-pound bombs in Rafah and other areas in Gaza... since our concern was not with the 500-pound bombs, they are proceeding as part of the normal process."
Additionally, a knowledgeable source indicated that the United States had informed Israel it would release the 500-pound bombs but would retain the larger bombs.
Previous Shipments
It is noted that the United States suspended the shipment of 2,000-pound and 500-pound bombs last May due to concerns about their potential impact in Gaza during the conflict. The administration's worries particularly centered on the possible use of such large bombs in Rafah, where over a million Palestinians have sought refuge.
In June, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Washington of withholding arms and urged U.S. officials to resolve the situation. However, Biden's aides expressed disappointment and astonishment at Netanyahu's statements.
Thousands of Bombs Since October
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant recently visited the United States and announced during his stay in Washington that significant progress had been made regarding the supply of U.S. munitions to Israel. It is noteworthy that despite the temporary suspension of one shipment, Israel has continued to receive a steady flow of U.S. weapons.
