As the conflict in Gaza persists, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his stance that the United States has significantly reduced arms shipments to Israel, contradicting the Biden administration’s denial of such claims. The alleged ‘dramatic drop’ in weapons deliveries began four months ago, with Netanyahu expressing his concerns during Cabinet meetings and in public statements. The tension over this issue underscores a growing rift in the US-Israel relationship, particularly regarding the Israeli military’s conduct in Gaza and the resulting harm to civilian life. Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant is set to engage in ‘critical’ talks in Washington, aiming to resolve the arms delivery issue and address the escalating tensions with Lebanon’s Hezbollah movement. The discussions are deemed crucial as the Gaza war rages on, and protests in Tel Aviv demand more effort to bring home hostages. On the northern front, exchanges of fire with Hezbollah have heightened fears of a broader conflict. The US has paused specific arms deliveries, including heavy bombs, since May over concerns about their use in densely populated areas like Rafah. However, US President Joe Biden has stated that defensive weapons, including air defense systems, will continue to be supplied to Israel. The recent developments have put the US’s balancing act between supporting Israel’s security and addressing the Palestinian humanitarian crisis to the test.
Key points
- Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu claims the US has reduced arms shipments to Israel, which the Biden administration denies.
- Defense Minister Yoav Gallant travels to Washington for talks on the Gaza war and tensions with Hezbollah.
- US acknowledges delaying heavy bomb deliveries to Israel over civilian harm concerns in Gaza.
Contradictions👾Netanyahu insists on a significant drop in US arms shipments, while the US denies a complete halt and continues to provide defensive weapons.
👾There is a discrepancy between Israeli claims of withheld arms and US assurances of ongoing defensive support.
