In a move that complicates the Biden administration's push for peace in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, the United States has sent a shipment of bombs to Israel. This revelation comes despite public expressions of frustration from the administration towards Israel's conduct in the war and efforts to broker a cease-fire.

According to senior administration officials who spoke to NBC News, the shipment includes over 1,800 Mark 84 (MK84) 2,000-pound bombs and approximately 500 Mark 82 (MK82) 500-pound bombs. These weapons, part of a package approved for Israel years ago, can be converted into precision-guided bombs with the help of a guidance kit, which the U.S. has supplied in the past. However, there are concerns that even with precision guidance, these bombs may still lead to civilian casualties. Israel is believed to have utilized them in its campaign in Gaza, where thousands have already lost their lives.

The U.S. decision to send the bombs to Israel comes at a time when there is growing international criticism of Washington's continued supply of weapons amid the mounting civilian death toll and scrutiny of Israel's military tactics. Israel receives $3.8 billion in annual military assistance from the U.S., but this assistance has faced increased scrutiny throughout the six-month conflict.

Cease-fire negotiations between Israel and Hamas are set to resume in Cairo, Egypt. However, a Hamas official has stated that the group will not attend the talks. The negotiations, which could result in a pause in fighting and the release of some hostages, have stalled in recent weeks and there has been little progress towards a deal.

Last week, the United Nations Security Council passed a symbolic resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire, with the U.S. abstaining from the vote. This decision drew anger from Israel, especially in light of the U.S. vetoing previous resolutions calling for an end to the hostilities.

The conflict's toll on civilians in Gaza has been devastating. Palestinian officials report that over 32,000 people have been killed, with thousands more trapped under rubble and presumed dead. Hospitals, schools, and other civilian infrastructure have been destroyed, displacing a majority of Gaza's population. The United Nations has warned of imminent famine in northern Gaza, with reports of deaths from malnutrition and dehydration already emerging.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with aid struggling to reach those in need. While some food supplies have trickled in through land crossings controlled by Israel, a second convoy consisting of three ships and a barge carrying 400 tons of food and supplies has set sail from Cyprus. This humanitarian effort aims to alleviate the suffering of the people in Gaza.

As the conflict continues, the U.S. faces growing challenges in reconciling its diplomatic efforts with the supply of weapons to Israel. The Biden administration's frustration with Israel's actions is increasingly overshadowed by its decision to send powerful bombs that have the potential to cause significant harm to civilian populations. The international community continues to call for a swift end to the hostilities and a focus on humanitarian aid for those affected by the conflict.