Move Reignites Criticism Amid Humanitarian Concerns in Gaza, as US Reaffirms Support for Israel
January 26, 2025: Washington: President Donald Trump has directed the US military to release a shipment of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel, reversing a hold imposed by his predecessor Joe Biden, according to White House sources. The decision has sparked fresh debate amid ongoing tensions in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
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The Biden administration had withheld the delivery due to concerns over potential civilian casualties, particularly in Gaza’s Rafah region, during Israel’s military campaign in the Palestinian enclave. However, Trump, in a statement on Truth Social, emphasized Israel’s right to the supplies. “A lot of things that were ordered and paid for by Israel, but have not been sent by Biden, are now on their way!” he declared, without further elaboration.
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Both Trump and Biden have publicly affirmed their support for Israel, despite growing international criticism over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Israel’s military assault on Gaza, following Hamas’ October 2023 attack, has resulted in over 47,000 reported deaths and widespread displacement, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Human rights advocates have raised alarms over alleged war crimes, which Israel denies.
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The conflict traces back to Hamas’ assault on October 7, during which 250 hostages were taken and over 1,200 Israelis were killed. In retaliation, Israel launched an intense campaign on Gaza, triggering a hunger crisis and displacing nearly the entire population. A ceasefire last week facilitated the release of some hostages and Palestinian prisoners.
Trump’s decision to expedite bomb deliveries aligns with Washington’s strategy to support Israel against Iran-backed militant groups like Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthis in Yemen. National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes underscored the importance of protecting US and allied interests in the region. However, Trump’s insistence on pushing these arms supplies, despite the risks of civilian harm, has reignited criticism of US foreign policy in the Middle East.
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Trump, Biden, Israel, Gaza conflict, 2,000-pound bombs, Hamas, US foreign policy, humanitarian crisis, arms delivery, Middle East tension