US Reaffirms Arms Support for Israel despite Gaza Atrocities

US Department of State spokesperson Matthew Miller defended recent arms transfers to Israel, which included fighter jets and 900kg bombs.

“I do not agree with that at all,” Miller responded when asked if the weapons transfers damaged the “credibility” and “sincerity” of US statements condemning civilian deaths in Gaza. “We have been very clear that we want to see Israel do everything it can to minimize civilian casualties. We have made clear that they need to operate at all times in full compliance with international humanitarian law,” Miller stated.

The official also reaffirmed the US's "long-term commitment" to what he called "Israel’s right to self-defense" despite growing concerns about rights abuses in Gaza. Reports last week revealed that Washington authorized arms transfers to Israel worth billions of dollars, including more than 1,800 MK84 2,000-pound bombs, 500 MK82 500-pound bombs, and 25 F35A fighter jets.

Critics say that the US policy of arming Israel violates American laws prohibiting military aid and weapon sales to regimes engaged in rights abuses. Several progressive lawmakers have called on President Joe Biden to end his unconditional support for Israel.

Democratic Senator Jeff Merkley highlighted America's complicity in the atrocities committed in Gaza, stating, “We must also recognize that America is complicit in this tragedy by resupplying Israel with bombs and failing to use America’s leverage to increase aid delivered into Gaza.”

Despite pressure to withhold arms, a US report revealed on Monday that Washington is contemplating major new weapons sales to Israel. The package includes up to 50 new F-15 fighter jets, 30 AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles, and a number of Joint Direct Attack Munition kits, which convert dumb bombs into precision-guided weapons.

The Politico cited a congressional aide and a person familiar with the issue, stating that the deals are pending US government approval. The administration has informally notified the relevant congressional committees, indicating readiness to proceed with the sale.

Israel launched the war on Gaza on October 7 after the Palestinian resistance movement initiated a surprise operation against the occupying entity in response to intensified Israeli violence against Palestinians. Tel Aviv has further exacerbated the crisis by blocking water, food, and electricity to Gaza, leading to a dire humanitarian situation.

Since the offensive began, the Tel Aviv regime has killed at least 32,845 Palestinians and injured nearly 75,392 others.