Trump snubs US Congress, sends $4bn in arms to Israel

In a move that has raised eyebrows in Washington, the Trump administration has bypassed Congress to send $4 billion in arms to Israel.

This is the second time in a month that the administration has invoked “emergency authorities” to expedite the delivery of weapons to Israel.

The decision comes amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has resulted in significant casualties on both sides.

According to estimates from Gaza’s Health Ministry, nearly 50,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since the conflict began.

The arms package sent by Trump includes various types of bombs, bulldozers, and GPS-guidance kits.

However, some lawmakers have expressed concerns that these weapons may not be suitable for urban combat, and could potentially exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the administration’s decision, stating that it was necessary to support Israel’s security.

“We will continue to use all available tools to fulfill America’s longstanding commitment to Israel’s security, including means to counter security threats,” Rubio said.

However, not everyone is convinced. One congressional official expressed alarm over the administration’s move to bypass the review process.

“This is a clear example of the administration’s disregard for congressional oversight,” the official said.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas has been ongoing for months, with diplomatic efforts struggling to secure a lasting peace.

The situation remains volatile, with Israel recently announcing a halt on all goods and humanitarian aid into Gaza.

In Israel…

Meanwhile, Diaspora Digital Media had reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appeared in court as his criminal trial resumes.

Netanyahu made history by becoming the first sitting leader to take the stand as a criminal defendant in Israel’s history.

He faces charges of fraud, breach of trust, and accepting bribes in three separate cases, which were first filed in 2019.

The allegations against Netanyahu include accepting tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of cigars and champagne from Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan in exchange for personal and business favours.

He’s also accused of promoting regulations that benefited media moguls, such as Shaul Elovitch, in exchange for favorable coverage of himself and his family.

Netanyahu denies any wrongdoing, calling the accusations “fake” and a “witch hunt” orchestrated by the media and a biased legal system.

His trial began in May 2020, and the prosecution rested in July 2024.

Netanyahu’s testimony started in December 2024, with his defense team requesting several postponements.

This is just the latest challenge for Netanyahu, who’s also facing an international arrest warrant for alleged war crimes in Israel’s war against Hamas.

Over 2,000 people protested in Jerusalem on Sunday, calling for an end to the war and the release of hostages in Gaza.

Critics accuse Netanyahu of prolonging the war to avoid facing the trial and maintain his power.

Under Israeli law, Netanyahu’s not required to resign unless convicted by the Supreme Court, a process that could take several months.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, with Israel’s 15th war in Gaza being described as the deadliest for Palestinians in the history of the conflict.

*Key Facts About the Trial:

*Three Separate Cases: Netanyahu faces charges in three cases: Case 1000 (gifts from businessmen), Case 2000 (deals with media moguls), and Case 4000 (regulatory favors for Bezeq).

*333 Witnesses: The prosecution listed 333 witnesses, including former Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid and former Defense Minister Benny Gantz.

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