Netanyahu Accuses Biden Administration of Delaying Arms Shipments
In a recent video, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the Biden administration of delaying arms shipments to Israel, a claim that has sparked significant controversy. Netanyahu asserted that it was 'inconceivable' that the United States had withheld military aid, adding that Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured him that the administration was working tirelessly to remove these obstacles. The Prime Minister expressed his frustrations, stating, 'I told the foreign minister in Lincoln that it is inconceivable that in recent months the American administration has delayed arms and ammunition shipments to Israel.'
U.S. Officials Refute Netanyahu's Claims
The response from U.S. officials was swift and firm. White House spokesman John Kirby commented on the video, stating that Netanyahu's accusations were 'incorrect' and that the administration was 'bewildered' and 'disappointed' by the Prime Minister's remarks. Kirby emphasized, 'There was no other country that did more and will continue to do more to protect Israel.' Additionally, President Biden's envoy Amos Hochstein, who is responsible for de-escalating tensions on the Lebanon-Israel border, met with Netanyahu and reportedly told him that the 'allegations' were 'inaccurate' and 'out of line.'
Secretary of State Blinken also responded, highlighting that the security relationship between the U.S. and Israel extends beyond the Gaza conflict. He emphasized the U.S. commitment to ensuring Israel has what it needs to defend itself against threats from Iran, Hezbollah, and other organizations. Blinken stated, 'The president was clear that he will do everything so that Israel has what it needs to protect itself from these threats - we are committed to it.'
- In early May, it was revealed that the Biden administration had stopped a shipment of heavy bombs to Israel, a decision that came months after the start of the war with Hamas and amid intense domestic scrutiny over the U.S. supply of weapons to the Israeli military.
- Despite Netanyahu's claims, Blinken has maintained that the U.S. is still reviewing a shipment of bombs to Israel due to concerns about their potential use in densely populated areas like Rafah. However, he assured that the U.S. would ensure Israel has what it needs to defend itself effectively.
- The controversy has led to the cancellation of a high-level meeting between Israel and the U.S. on Iran. Nonetheless, U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and his Israeli counterpart Tzachi Hanegbi are expected to continue their discussions.
