On Monday, the Trump administration formalised a $2.8 bn package that will ship 40,000 2,000‑lb bombs—split evenly between MK‑84 and BLU‑117 munitions, plus 20,000 I‑2000 penetrators—to Israel, a move the Washington Post reports was built on U.S. taxpayer money.
The MK‑84, a 2‑ton warhead that pulverises concrete and metal, has been repeatedly deployed over Gaza, where its blasts have created massive craters and killed civilians. Gaza health authorities say 73,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 7.
Trump’s decision follows a 2022 pause on U.S. arms to Israel, a hold lifted this year after he retook office. The sale bypassed normal congressional scrutiny, a pattern that has drawn criticism from rights groups who fear escalation.
Congress has been briefed on the purchase and will vote on the sale later this month, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the munitions are essential for defending against Hamas tunnels. Human rights advocates warn the deal could deepen civilian suffering in Gaza.