In the latest developments that triggered global debate, Israel has received MK-84 bombing from the United States. This 2,000 pound bomb arrived after the former US President Donald Trump gave the final approval for the delivery. MK-84, known as a destroyer bomb without control, is designed to penetrate the structure of concrete and metal, with a very broad explosion radius.
The arrival of this bomb caused a serious concern, especially in the midst of fragile ceasefire in Gaza. Many parties question whether this shipment will trigger conflict escalation or become a tool to maintain stability in the region.
Delivery background
The MK-84 bomb delivery was actually postponed by the government Biden. The reason, concerns over the potential impact on the region Gaza which is densely populated. However, Trump’s decision to revoke the export block last month opened the road for the shipment.
Israeli Security Minister, Katz, welcomed the arrival of this bomb. In his statement, Katz called the shipment as “important assets for the Air Force and IDF (Israeli Defense Forces),” as well as the strong evidence of the alliance between Israel and the United States.
A fragile ceasefire
The arrival of this bomb took place amid a ceasefire agreed last month between Israel and Hamas. This ceasefire aims to facilitate the exchange of prisoners from both parties. However, the ceasefire continues to be threatened due to violations committed by Israel, which is feared to be able to trigger armed conflict.
Some analysts suspect that the delivery of this bomb is an Israeli preparation for the possibility of further attacks to the Gaza Strip if the ceasefire fails to be maintained. This raises a serious question about the future of peace in the region.
US military support for Israel
Since the conflict heated up in October 2023, the United States has provided billions of dollars military assistance to Israel. According to reports The New York TimesThe US has sent more than 20,000 bombs without control, 2,600 bombs guided, and 3,000 precision missiles to Israel. In addition, Washington also provides fighter aircraft, ammunition, and air defense system.
Many of these weapons transfers are done in secret or only revealed in part. An analysis by the Democratic Defense Foundation shows that the supply of US weapons is very important for the ability of the Israeli military. However, the analysis also highlighted that Israel has not been able to achieve full independence in weapons and ammunition production.
International reaction
The arrival of the MK-84 bombing to Israel has triggered a variety of reactions from the international community. Some US allied countries support this step as a form of solidarity with Israel, while others criticize it as an action that can worsen the situation in Gaza.
Human rights organizations also voiced their concerns. They asserted that the use of bombs with high explosive power in densely populated areas such as Gaza could result in large civilian casualties, who violated international humanitarian law.
The future of Israel-Gaza conflict
With the arrival of the MK-84 bomb, the situation in Gaza is increasingly uncertain. On the one hand, Israel may feel more confident with military support from the US. On the other hand, this step can trigger a strong reaction from groups such as Hamas, who might see this as a provocation.
The big question that is now hanging is: Will the delivery of this bomb be a trigger for escalation of conflict, or instead becomes a device for Israel to maintain its safety? The answer may be revealed in the next few weeks, especially if this fragile ceasefire really collapses.
One thing is certain: The arrival of the MK-84 bombing to Israel is not just a military problem, but also a complex political and humanitarian issue, with an impact that can be felt far beyond the geographical boundaries of the Middle East.