US Reportedly Preparing $2.8 Billion Arms Package for Israel, Including Contested Bombs
The Washington Post reports the proposed sale includes tens of thousands of large bombs and warheads, some of which have drawn criticism over their use in populated areas.
The United States is preparing a proposed arms package for Israel valued at approximately $2.8 billion that includes tens of thousands of bombs and warheads, according to a report by the Washington Post cited by Anadolu Agency.
Citing the report, Anadolu Agency said the package includes 20,000 MK-84 bombs, 20,000 BLU-117 bombs and 20,000 I-2000 Penetrator warheads.
The MK-84 is a large, general-purpose bomb that has previously drawn scrutiny from human rights groups and some officials over its potential for causing significant damage and casualties when used in densely populated areas. The BLU-117 is a similarly heavy munition, while the I-2000 Penetrator is designed to strike fortified or underground targets.
The Washington Post report did not specify a timeline for when the package might be finalized or delivered, according to Anadolu Agency's account of the story.
Anadolu Agency did not provide additional detail on the source of the Washington Post's information or on any official confirmation from the U.S. government regarding the proposed sale.
Arms transfers between the United States and Israel are typically subject to congressional notification and review processes before being finalized, though specific procedural details for this particular package were not addressed in the available report.
Sources
- US to send $2.8B arms package for Israel including controversial bombs: WaPo — Anadolu Agency (Turkey)
EGazette summarizes reporting from multiple sources; follow the links for the originals.
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