What it is about
Recent changes to US procedures have affected the speed of weapons transfers to Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly claimed that the US has been withholding armaments, a claim the US refutes.
Why it matters
The alleged slowdown in arms supplies fuels tensions between Israel and the US, impacting Israel’s security dynamics and regional military strategies. The changes coincide with a period of reduced conflict in Gaza and increased caution about potential escalations with Hezbollah in Lebanon.
The Big Picture
Prime Minister Netanyahu alleges that the US has been holding back shipments vital to Israel’s defense, which US officials deny. The primary exception noted involves heavy bombs which the US feared could impact densely populated areas.
US Perspective
Despite Netanyahu’s claims, a US official confirmed that shipments have continued at a “normal pace,” though not at the expedited rate seen in the early conflict phase. This shift stems from the involvement of Congressional authorizations that resumed their traditional processes.
Resuming standard procedures also reflects US concerns about a potential preemptive strike by Israel against Hezbollah, which could spark a broader regional conflict.
Israeli Assurance
An Israeli official has assured that this procedural change hasn’t compromised the Israel Defense Forces’ ability to operate effectively in Gaza and Lebanon.
Political Dynamics
Netanyahu’s public criticism of the US has strained relations, causing frustration within the Biden administration. It’s speculated that his stance could be politically motivated, aimed at bolstering domestic support or preempting Defense Minister Yoav Gallant’s potential diplomatic wins.
Statements
Netanyahu underscored during a cabinet meeting that repeated appeals for expedited shipments yielded little change, with critical armaments still delayed. In contrast, the White House looks forward to engaging in constructive discussions with Gallant, expressing disappointment at Netanyahu’s rhetoric.
Defense Minister Gallant is set to hold high-level meetings in Washington, which may influence future arms transfer policies.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.