Israel has received a shipment of MK-84 bombs from the United States after President Donald Trump lifted an export block imposed by the Biden administration. The MK-84, a 2,000-pound unguided bomb, is capable of penetrating thick concrete and metal, creating a wide blast radius.
The Biden administration had initially halted the export due to concerns about civilian casualties in densely populated Gaza. Although thousands of similar bombs were sent to Israel following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack from Gaza, a specific shipment was withheld until Trump authorized its release last month.
Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz welcomed the shipment, highlighting its importance to the Israeli Air Force and its reinforcement of the strong U.S.-Israel alliance. The delivery comes amid heightened tensions, as a fragile ceasefire in Gaza faces challenges, with both sides accusing each other of violating the truce meant to facilitate hostage-prisoner exchanges.
The United States has provided billions of dollars in aid to Israel since the conflict began. The arrival of the MK-84 bombs underscores continued U.S. military support despite previous restrictions.
