Washington: The sale of over 20,000 American-made assault rifles to Israel has been approved by the Trump administration. The Biden government previously stalled the agreement over the concern over the weapon’s misuse by Israeli settlers in the West Bank.
According to a report published by Reuters, on March 6, the US State Department expressed its intention to go ahead with the deal involving the sale of weapons worth $24 million. The deal mentions the supply of Colt Carbine 5.56 mm automatic rifles supposed to be used by Israeli National Policy.
Despite the deal being relatively small compared to the billions in U.S. military aid to Israel, the rifle sale drew attention worldwide during Biden’s presidency. The Biden administration halted the sale as it thought that weapons could be used by the settlers involved in violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank. The government also sanctioned many individuals and groups suspected of any involvement in violence in the area.
However, after Trump took over the presidency, there was a shift in US policy. On the first day of Trump’s taking charge of the office, he overturned the sanctions through an executive order. The US government since then has been advancing military sales to Israel.
Yet, the State Department has remained silent on whether it secured any formal guarantees from Israel regarding the rifles’ use and distribution.
According to the congressional notification, the decision was taken considering several factors including “political, military, economic, human rights, and arms control.” However, the State Department has not expressed anything regarding any guarantee from Israel about the use of the weapon’s use and distribution.
The sale has drawn concerns around the globe due to the rising tensions in the West Bank, where the violence against the Palestinians has risen significantly over the past few months. The deal is being strongly criticised as it could worsen the already volatile situation. Also, it is facing criticism from human rights advocates who emphasise stricter oversight and accountability in arms transfer.
