WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. paused a shipment of bombs to Israel last week over concerns that Israel was approaching a decision on launching a full-scale assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah against the wishes of the U.S., a senior administration official said Tuesday.
The shipment was supposed to consist of 1,800 2,000-pound (900-kilogram) bombs and 1,700 500-pound (225-kilogram) bombs, according to the official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive matter, with the focus of U.S. concern being the larger explosives and how they could be used in a dense urban setting. More than 1 million civilians are sheltering in Rafah after evacuating other parts of Gaza amid Israel’s war on Hamas, which came after the militant group’s deadly attack on Israel on Oct. 7.
The U.S. has historically provided enormous amounts of military aid for Israel. That has only accelerated in the aftermath of Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack that killed some 1,200 in Israel and led to about 250 being taken captive by militants. The pausing of the aid shipment is the most striking manifestation of the growing daylight between Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government and the administration of President Joe Biden, which has called on Israel to do far more to protect the lives of innocent civilians in Gaza.
Hollywood nepo babies Willow and Jaden Smith play it cool in edgy outfits at 2024 Met Gala
Hurricanes' depth proves critical to secure 2nd
Why Israel is so determined to launch an offensive in Rafah
Georgia governor signs new election changes into law
Stock market today: Global stocks are mixed after Wall St tumble. Most markets close for holiday
Relationship expert reveals 'ultra easy test' to figure out whether YOU are a narcissist
Mississippi Medicaid expansion plan could struggle for bipartisan support, Democratic leader says
More GOP states challenge federal rules protecting transgender students
Fury as shocking footage shows inside the trashed Columbia University hall that was occupied by pro
University of Kentucky faculty issue no
Taylor Swift is being given too much airtime by the BBC, exasperated viewers tell the corporation