The United States has decided to pause a shipment of 2,000-pound bombs and 500-pound bombs to Israel as the country plans an assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah. The decision comes amid concerns about the potential for massive casualties in the densely populated area. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that smaller, more precise weapons are needed for such environments, but emphasized that the decision is not final. Israel expressed disappointment with the decision, suggesting it was made due to political pressure on President Joe Biden.
The 2,000-pound bomb is a powerful air-dropped munition that can carry a higher payload due to its lack of an engine. It has multiple variants designed for different targets, either underground or above ground. While Joint Direct Attack Munition kits can make these bombs more precise, they still pose a significant risk in densely populated urban areas. The U.S. has provided these munitions to Ukraine as well, and after an attack on Israel by Hamas, supplied them to assist in their defense.
Experts believe that the majority of bombs used by Israel in Gaza are U.S.-made, including the 2,000-pound bombs which have resulted in the deaths of hundreds in densely populated areas. These bombs are crucial in targeting Hamas’ tunnel network in Rafah, according to weapons experts. The potential use of these bombs in Rafah, where over 1 million refugees are sheltering, has raised concerns about the potential for collateral damage and civilian casualties.
A report by an independent task force for the State and Defense Departments highlighted the significant number of munitions dropped in Gaza during the war, with evidence of 2,000-pound bombs causing widespread destruction. Defense Secretary Austin questioned the use of such powerful bombs in Rafah, emphasizing the need for more precise operations. Israel’s U.N. Ambassador called the pause in bomb shipments a disappointing decision, suggesting it was influenced by political pressure.
The decision to pause the shipment of bombs to Israel has raised concerns about the future of the U.S.-Israel relationship. Some experts view it as a diplomatic message to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to consider American interests more carefully. While the pause may not immediately impact Israel’s capabilities, it reflects a shift in the dynamics between the two countries. The use of powerful bombs in Gaza remains a contentious issue, with human rights groups raising concerns about indiscriminate civilian casualties.
Overall, the pause in bomb shipments to Israel highlights the complexities of providing military assistance in conflict zones, particularly in densely populated areas. The discussion around the use of 2,000-pound bombs underscores the challenges of balancing the need for defense with the risk of civilian harm. The decision reflects ongoing debates within the U.S. government about the appropriate use of force in conflict situations and the need for more precise weapons in urban environments.
