The White House is actively disputing recent claims made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who stated that the United States is withholding weapons from Israel. In a video posted to X (formerly Twitter) this week, Netanyahu expressed frustration, calling it “inconceivable” that the Biden administration would hold back weapons and ammunition critical for Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas.
In response, Secretary of State Antony Blinken clarified that the administration is reviewing a specific shipment of 2,000-pound bombs due to concerns about their potential use in densely populated areas like Rafah, in the Gaza Strip. Blinken emphasized that apart from this particular shipment, all other military aid and weapons are being delivered to Israel as planned.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre also addressed the issue, stating that the administration is unclear about what Netanyahu is referring to and reassured that the U.S. continues to support Israel with the necessary armaments.
Meanwhile, Congress is moving forward with another significant arms sale to Israel. Two top Democratic senators had initially blocked the $18 billion weapons package over concerns about the use of the weapons, citing reports of “indiscriminate bombing” and the resulting 37,000 deaths in Palestine. Despite these concerns, both senators have now approved the package, which includes 50 F-1 fighter jets and advanced air-to-air missiles.
As the administration reviews the paused shipment of large bombs, Blinken reiterated that all other munitions are flowing to Israel without interruption. He also mentioned that a ceasefire in Gaza could be imminent if Hamas agrees to the latest proposals, highlighting that Hamas remains the primary barrier to peace.
This development underscores the complexity of U.S. foreign policy and military support in the context of the Israel-Hamas conflict, balancing strategic alliances with humanitarian concerns.
