A request has been made for tank ammunition and tactical vehicles for Israel, despite President Biden’s earlier pause on bombs over the assault on Rafah. The Biden administration has informed Congress of its intentions to send a $1 billion military aid package to Israel. The package, which is still pending approval, includes funding for tank ammunition, tactical vehicles, and mortar rounds.
The transfer of these lethal weapons comes after President Biden halted a single shipment of bombs due to concerns over Israel’s offensive in Rafah. Despite these concerns, the administration is moving forward with the military aid package. Nearly 450,000 people have been displaced from Rafah since May 6, with another 100,000 fleeing in the face of new attacks.
President Biden has acknowledged that US weaponry has been used by Israel to kill civilians. While a State Department report found potential violations of international law, it did not recommend halting military aid. The administration has continued to provide assistance to Israel, with the exception of the bomb shipment that was paused.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with thousands killed and wounded in Israeli attacks. President Biden has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to refrain from invading Rafah without safeguards for civilians. The Israeli military continues its operations in Gaza, targeting numerous locations.
Despite the ongoing conflict and concerns over civilian casualties, the US government is moving forward with the military aid package for Israel. The decision has raised criticism and concerns among some lawmakers and the public, particularly as President Biden faces re-election this year.