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CNN: A U.S. intelligence assessment revealed that nearly half of the air-to-ground munitions used by Israel in Gaza since October 7 have been unguided “dumb bombs.” The Office of the Director of National Intelligence’s report, shared with CNN by sources, indicates that about 40-45% of the 29,000 munitions used were unguided, contrasting with precision-guided types. Unguided munitions, less accurate and potentially more harmful to civilians, especially in densely populated areas like Gaza, are seen as contributing to high civilian casualties.
President Joe Biden criticized Israel for “indiscriminate bombing” in Gaza, while Israeli military spokespersons emphasized their commitment to minimizing civilian harm. However, experts expressed concern over Israel’s use of these munitions, arguing it undermines their claims of trying to minimize civilian casualties.
The situation has strained U.S.-Israeli relations, with the U.S. struggling to reconcile its support for Israel’s civilian protection efforts and criticism of their military tactics. The death toll in Gaza has sparked international concern, with the U.S. facing isolation for not endorsing a ceasefire. Biden’s national security adviser Jake Sullivan’s visit to Israel aims to address these concerns.
Marc Garlasco, a former UN military analyst, highlighted the risks of using unguided munitions in populated areas like Gaza. The U.S., which has phased out unguided munitions, has also supplied Israel with such weapons, including Mk82 bombs, and systems to convert them into precision-guided munitions. Despite calls for more precise targeting and concerns raised by Democratic lawmakers and human rights organizations, the Biden administration has no current plans to condition military aid to Israel.
The entire article can be read at the link https://edition.cnn.com/2023/12/13/politics/intelligence-assessment-dumb-bombs-israel-gaza/index.html
