White House Denies US Withholding Weapons From Israel, Netanyahu's Claims Disputed
ICARO Media Group
In a recent altercation between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Biden administration, the White House has vehemently denied accusations that the United States is withholding weapons and ammunition from Israel. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre categorically stated that they are not aware of what Netanyahu is referring to.
Netanyahu had publicly criticized the US government earlier, expressing his disbelief that weapons and ammunition were being withheld from Israel in recent months. He emphasized the vital relationship between Israel and America, stating that it was "inconceivable" that such actions were taken.
While the US has acknowledged an ongoing pause on the delivery of one specific shipment of bombs, Jean-Pierre made it clear that this pause does not extend to any other weapons. Secretary of State Antony Blinken echoed this sentiment, but refused to divulge the details of his diplomatic conversation with Netanyahu.
The administration's decision to hold back the consignment of bombs is due to concerns over their potential use in urban areas of Gaza. It is worth noting that this is the first time a delay in the delivery of US munitions to Israel has occurred. The United States is Israel's largest supplier of weapons and ammunition, providing $3.8 billion of military aid annually.
Despite the temporary halt on one shipment, it has been reported that the Biden administration is still planning to move forward with a major arms sale to Israel. This deal includes 50 F-15 fighter jets worth over $18 billion. Resistance from top Democrats, such as Senator Benjamin Cardin of Maryland and Congressman Gregory Meeks of New York, had initially stalled the sale. However, after consultations with the administration, both eventually signed off on the transaction.
The delay in the weapons shipment has been met with criticism from Republicans who argue for unwavering support to Israel. Congressman Russell Fry of South Carolina labeled the holdup as "reprehensible," asserting that the United States must stand firmly with Israel.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has further complicated the situation. The Israeli military launched a campaign in Gaza in response to an attack on southern Israel in early October, leading to a significant loss of life. Senator Cardin's spokesman emphasized that the arms sale to Israel followed the regular review process.
President Joe Biden has been facing increasing pressure from both within his party and Republicans when it comes to Israel's handling of the conflict and the US military support provided. As the war continues, the Biden administration strives to strike a balance between supporting a key ally while addressing concerns over the use of weapons in densely populated areas.
As tensions persist, the state department is expected to formally notify Congress of the arms sale to Israel, pending its approval. The outcome of this decision will have significant implications for one of the largest arms transactions with Israel in recent times.
With mounting concerns over the conflict in the Middle East, Israel and the United States will need to navigate this delicate situation while ensuring the security and stability of the region.
(Note: The information regarding US voters' concerns on immigration and the casualties mentioned in Gaza is not mentioned in the provided text and has been excluded from this article.