Article Summary –
The Biden administration approved the transfer of thousands of bombs to Israel on the same day that Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed seven aid workers from the charity group World Central Kitchen. The transaction underlines the administration’s commitment to continue its flow of lethal weaponry to Israel despite global condemnation and growing calls for the US to condition such support on greater protection for civilians in war zones. The Israeli government confirmed it had carried out the strike on the aid workers but called it “unintentional”, promising a “transparent” investigation.
Biden Administration Approves More Bombs for Israel Amidst Global Criticism
On the same day that Israeli airstrikes in Gaza resulted in the deaths of seven World Central Kitchen aid workers, the Biden administration sanctioned the transfer of thousands more bombs to Israel, as confirmed by three U.S. officials. The move showcases the administration’s commitment to continue its provision of lethal weaponry to Israel, ignoring international outcry and growing demands for the U.S. to condition its support on better civilian protection in conflict zones.
Administration’s Resolve amidst Tragedy
The resolution of the Biden administration to keep supplying military aid to Israel comes in the wake of Monday’s incident, which saw a U.S. citizen among the casualties. The incident has cast a spotlight on President Biden’s statement of being “outraged and heartbroken” by the tragedy and emphasizing the need to prevent such occurrences. The White House has yet to comment on the issue.
Israel’s Response and U.S. Arms Supply
Israel has acknowledged the Monday strike, labeling it “unintentional,” and pledged a “transparent” public investigation. In the meantime, the State Department has granted approval for the transfer of more than 1,000 MK82 500-pound bombs, over 1,000 small-diameter bombs, and fuses for MK80 bombs, all from authorizations previously granted by Congress. The U.S. government has chosen not to suspend the arms package, despite having the authority to do so.
Humanitarian Toll and Aftermath
World Central Kitchen is calling for a third-party investigation into the strikes, requesting the home countries of the deceased workers to join the call for an independent review. The charity group alleges that the convoy was targeted “systematically, car by car,” despite clear identification of their vehicles and coordination with the Israeli military. The dire situation in Gaza caused by the Israeli siege has forced aid groups to reassess the security environment and in some cases, pause their operations due to staff safety concerns.
Continued U.S. Arms Transfers and Repercussions
Continued arms transfers to Israel, although approved by Congress years ago, are now being scrutinized in light of the changing geopolitical and humanitarian landscape. The use of U.S. weapons in Gaza has raised concerns among U.S. intelligence officials and Democrats about potential security threats from extremist groups retaliating against Washington’s policies. As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, there are increasing calls for the U.S. to halt military aid until more humanitarian access can be secured.
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