US President Donald Trump announced that he ordered the US military to release 2,000-pound bombs to Israel on Saturday. This move lifted a hold placed by former President Joe Biden. Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, “We released them. We released them today. And they’ll have them. They paid for them and they’ve been waiting for them for a long time. They’ve been in storage.”
Background on the Hold
The bombs, capable of destroying thick concrete, were initially withheld by the Biden administration. The delay was due to concerns about their potential effects on civilians in Gaza, especially in Rafah. However, after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, Biden sent a shipment of such bombs to support Israel’s defense efforts. Yet, one shipment was held back due to humanitarian concerns.
Trump Justifies the Move
Trump defended his decision by stating, “Because they bought them.” Earlier, he wrote on Truth Social, “A lot of things that were ordered and paid for by Israel, but have not been sent by Biden, are now on their way!”
US Support for Israel Amid Criticism
Since the conflict began, the US has pledged billions of dollars in aid to Israel. Both Trump and Biden have shown strong support for Israel, but the US has faced criticism over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Protests calling for an arms embargo have been unsuccessful.
Ongoing Devastation in Gaza
The ongoing fighting in Gaza has caused massive destruction. Over 47,000 people have died due to Israeli military strikes, and almost the entire population of Gaza has been displaced. This has led to accusations of genocide and war crimes, which Israel denies.