US Prepares Massive $2.8 Billion Bomb Shipment to Israel

The United States is preparing an unprecedented arms deal for Israel, potentially worth $2.8 billion, which includes approximately 40,000 heavy bombs. According to Reuters, citing U.S. sources, the package could comprise 20,000 MK-84 bombs and 20,000 BLU-117 bombs, each weighing around 900 kilograms. Additionally, Israel is slated to receive 20,000 I-2000 Penetrator warheads, designed for striking hardened and underground targets.

If approved, this transaction would represent one of the largest single-shipment deliveries of such munitions to Israel in recent years. The U.S. administration has informed relevant Congressional committees about the planned deal, with funding expected to be largely covered by the U.S. Foreign Military Financing program, effectively acting as military aid for weapons purchases.

The MK-84 and BLU-117 bombs are capable of penetrating concrete structures and causing significant destruction, while the I-2000 is specifically for hardened targets. These types of munitions have been previously used by Israel in Gaza and Lebanon, drawing criticism from human rights groups and arms experts due to potential civilian casualties in densely populated areas.

This proposed deal follows a period of scrutiny. In 2024, the Biden administration had paused a shipment of similar 900-kilogram bombs to Israel over concerns about civilian harm in Gaza. However, this restriction was reportedly lifted in January 2025 following Donald Trump's return to the White House.

The new initiative comes amid ongoing debates in the U.S. regarding military aid to Israel. While some lawmakers advocate for limiting support, many Republicans continue to back strong U.S.-Israel military cooperation. Opponents of the deal have indicated intentions to seek its blockage, citing humanitarian concerns about using heavy munitions in populated zones.

An administration official stated that all foreign arms sales undergo established procedures and declined to comment on pending deals. The article also briefly mentions a separate report about Iran preparing a "dangerous trap" for Trump.