Israel asks US for more weapons and ammunition

Israel is asking the US for more tank ammunition and tactical vehicles, three people familiar with the matter said, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government looks to replenish its stockpiles amid the war in Gaza and increasing tensions with Iran.

The people, who asked not to be identified discussing private deliberations, said the request had only just been submitted and the administration had yet to begin a formal evaluation.

The Wall Street Journal reported earlier that the administration was weighing the request for $1 billion in 120mm tank ammunition, vehicles and mortar rounds.

The State Department and the National Security Council declined to comment

The Israeli requests for more weapons and ammunition come as the Israeli army prepares to storm Rafah

Earlier , The Biden administration approved the transfer of billions of dollars of military equipment to Israel, amid concerns about a potential Israeli offensive in the Gaza Strip city of Rafah, The Washington Post reported

The United States provides Israel with more than 1,800 MK84 2,000-pound bombs and 500 MK82 500-pound bombs, the report said, citing State Department and Pentagon officials.

The MK84 bombs have been connected to mass-casualty incidents during Israel’s military operations in the Gaza Strip, the report said.