Despite growing tensions with Israel, the Biden administration has approved the transfer of billions of dollars in bombs and fighter jets to the country.

This move comes amid concerns over a potential military offensive in southern Gaza that could endanger hundreds of thousands of Palestinian civilians. The arms packages include over 1,800 MK84 2,000-pound bombs and 500 MK82 500-pound bombs, which have been linked to previous mass-casualty events in Gaza.

Despite the discord between the U.S. and Israel over the conduct of the war, the Biden administration maintains that weapons transfers are not a bargaining chip. “We have continued to support Israel’s right to defend itself,” a White House official stated. “Conditioning aid has not been our policy.”

However, some Democrats, including allies of President Biden, argue that the U.S. should withhold weapons unless Israel commits to limiting civilian casualties during a planned operation in Rafah, a final Hamas stronghold.

“The Biden administration needs to use their leverage effectively and, in my view, they should receive these basic commitments before greenlighting more bombs for Gaza,” said Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland).

Read more at The Washington Post.