In a highly delicate diplomatic move, Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant is set to request additional weaponry and equipment from the United States during his meeting with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. This request comes at a moment when US weapons sales to Israel are facing intense scrutiny from lawmakers and critics of President Joe Biden's support for the country.

Gallant's visit to the Pentagon marks his first official trip as Israeli defense minister, following his discussions earlier this week with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and national security adviser Jake Sullivan. The talks with US officials were expected to include a focus on weapons sales.

However, tensions between the US and Israel escalated on Monday when an Israeli delegation canceled planned meetings with US officials. The cancellation came in response to the US decision not to veto a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages from Gaza.

The ongoing weapons sales from the US remain a top priority for Israeli defense officials, who are pushing for faster approval and progress on the transfers. Gallant, in a previous phone call with Austin, made it clear that he would be bringing a wishlist of US weapons and equipment to the meeting, including precision-guided munitions, F-35 and F-15 fighter jets.

While there is scrutiny surrounding the weapons sales, a senior administration official confirmed that there is currently no policy decision to deny additional weapons provision to Israel. The US continues to support Israel's right to defend itself, with Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder reiterating that the support is "ironclad."

Amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Defense Secretary Austin routinely presses Gallant on how the US-provided weapons are being utilized. The officials have also discussed the importance of Israel doing more to protect civilians and gain international support.

However, there are concerns within the administration regarding the approval of too many large weapons sales, as it could potentially enable Israel to accumulate equipment for a future confrontation with Hezbollah in Lebanon. The US has been urging Israel to avoid such a scenario, while recognizing Israel's need to replenish its stockpiles during wartime.

As the Biden administration continues to pressure Israel to protect civilians in Gaza and refrain from military action against Hezbollah, it has not halted weapons shipments to the country. Since October, the US has completed over 100 foreign military sales to Israel, with most falling below the dollar amount requiring congressional notification.

While some smaller munitions sales have been made public, larger sales, such as the fighter jets requested by Israel, will necessitate review and approval by Congress, sparking anticipated intense debates.

In response to calls from Democratic lawmakers for the suspension of military assistance unless credible assurances of compliance with international humanitarian law are provided, Israel has reportedly given assurances to the US. However, US assessments of Israel's conduct will continue.

The meeting between Gallant and Austin will play a crucial role in shaping the future of US-Israel relations and the flow of weapons. The ongoing conflict and the delicate diplomatic dance highlight the challenges faced by both nations in navigating this complex situation.

This article highlights the growing requests for US weaponry and equipment from Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and the intense scrutiny surrounding the ongoing weapons sales between the two countries. The delicate diplomatic negotiations and the US administration's considerations regarding potential confrontations with Hezbollah add another layer of complexity to the situation.