ISLAMABAD: Israel has received a shipment of heavy MK-84 bombs from the United States after President Donald Trump lifted an export ban imposed by his predecessor, Joe Biden, Israel’s defense ministry announced on Sunday.
“The munitions shipment that arrived in Israel tonight, released by the Trump administration, represents a significant asset for the Air Force and the IDF and serves as further evidence of the strong alliance between Israel and the United States,” said Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz.
The MK-84 is a 2,000-pound unguided bomb capable of penetrating reinforced structures and causing significant destruction. The Biden administration had previously blocked its export over concerns about civilian casualties in Gaza. However, Trump cleared the shipment last month as part of his administration’s renewed military support for Israel.
The delivery coincides with the first official visit to Israel by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who arrived in Tel Aviv on Saturday night. Rubio is set to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, with discussions expected to focus on ceasefire negotiations and the future of the Gaza Strip, which has suffered 15 months of war between Israel and Hamas.
The war has led to thousands of deaths and widespread destruction, with Washington facing growing international criticism over its continued military support for Israel. The U.S. has provided billions of dollars in aid since the conflict began, and this latest shipment signals ongoing backing despite opposition from some global leaders.
The ceasefire, which began last month, remains fragile, with both Israel and Hamas accusing each other of violations. On Saturday, Hamas released three Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners after mediation efforts.
Rubio is also expected to discuss Trump’s controversial proposal for U.S. control over Gaza, a plan widely rejected by Arab governments. While the U.S. has stated it is open to alternative solutions, officials have reiterated that “the only plan right now is Trump’s.”
The bomb shipment comes at a critical moment, with Israel preparing for potential escalations while ceasefire talks remain uncertain. Netanyahu has emphasized that Israel’s next steps will be coordinated with Washington.
