Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated claims that the United States has been withholding weapons deliveries crucial for Israel’s ongoing war efforts in Gaza, despite denials from the Biden administration.
Netanyahu told his Cabinet about a significant reduction in U.S. weapon supplies over the past four months, specifying only that certain items arrived sporadically while overall munitions were delayed.
These assertions follow a video statement released by Netanyahu last week, in which he expressed frustration over unsuccessful attempts to expedite weapons deliveries through American officials. Netanyahu expressed hope on Sunday that the issue would soon be resolved but provided no further details.
The White House responded to Netanyahu’s comments by reiterating its clear position and emphasizing that it will not engage with the Prime Minister’s political statements. They anticipate constructive discussions with Israel’s Defense Minister in Washington.
White House national security spokesman John Kirby expressed confusion over Netanyahu’s claims, insisting that no country has supported Israel’s defense more than the United States.
An anonymous U.S. official suggested Netanyahu’s statements were influenced by Israeli Defense Forces chief Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi’s belief that the U.S. was slow in delivering smaller items like aircraft spare parts.
The official clarified that there was no substantial delay in deliveries, except for a specific shipment of 2,000-pound bombs, which was halted in early May due to concerns about civilian casualties in Gaza.
President Biden explained the pause on these bomb shipments was due to civilian casualties in Gaza, asserting that the U.S. would not supply weapons used in the Rafah region.
However, the administration confirmed continued support for Israel’s Iron Dome defense system and other defensive needs. The Pentagon confirmed ongoing weapon supplies to Israel following the pause in May.
The conflict in Gaza, triggered by Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel, has strained U.S.-Israel relations. While the U.S. supports Israel’s objectives to free hostages and defeat Hamas, it has also voiced concerns over the increasing Palestinian death toll and the resulting humanitarian crisis.
