The United States has decided to proceed with the release of a shipment containing 1,800 bombs to Israel, which had been halted for several months due to concerns over damage in the Gaza city of Rafah, Axios disclosed on Thursday.
Unnamed US and Israeli officials informed Axios that the Biden administration intends to deliver a batch of 500-pound (226kg) bombs, initially paused in April.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin previously cautioned Israel against launching extensive attacks in Rafah without adequate safeguards for civilian lives.
Axios suggested that the unfreezing indicates reduced US apprehension about the potential Israeli use of these bombs in Gaza, amid efforts to mend relations with a critical Middle Eastern ally strained since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict last October.
Delivery of the bombs is expected in two weeks after Israel concludes its operations in Rafah.
Negotiations are ongoing between US and Israeli officials regarding another segment of the shipment, comprising 1,800 2,000-pound (900kg) bombs.
Axios noted delays in these negotiations following public criticisms from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directed at Washington.
Reuters reported on Friday that the US has supplied Israel with a total of 14,000 2,000-pound bombs, 6,500 500-pound bombs, 3,000 Hellfire missiles, and other munitions since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Additionally, Washington has provided $6.5 billion in security assistance since October 7.
The ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hamas have resulted in significant casualties, with more than 37,000 Palestinians and 1,400 Israelis killed, exacerbating destruction and humanitarian challenges in Gaza.
Follow the latest news on Google News
