WASHINGTON, USA: A White House spokesperson responded bluntly to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s assertion that the Biden administration is withholding weapons from Israel by stating, “We genuinely do not know what he is talking about.” Netanyahu’s comments, made in a video, marked a significant public critique of the Biden administration since the Gaza conflict began on October 7. Despite his claims, the U.S. has only held back one weapons shipment since the onset of the war while continuing to supply Israel with billions of dollars worth of arms and ammunition.
The delayed shipment, paused in May, was intended to signal U.S. concerns over a potential Israeli ground operation in Rafah and included 3,500 bombs for fighter jets. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre clarified that aside from this paused shipment, all other arms deliveries are proceeding. Netanyahu recounted a “candid conversation” with Secretary of State Tony Blinken, in which he expressed frustration over the delay. Netanyahu likened Israel’s request to Winston Churchill’s plea during World War II, urging the U.S. to provide the necessary tools to complete their mission.
Blinken, in a press conference, did not confirm Netanyahu’s account of their conversation but emphasized the strong security ties between the U.S. and Israel. He reiterated that the U.S. is reviewing the paused shipment due to concerns about its use in densely populated areas like Rafah. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell criticized the hold on the shipment, arguing it complicates Israel’s operations and calling for Israel to have the freedom to complete its mission based on tactical realities rather than political considerations in Washington.
Netanyahu’s remarks reflect the partisan split in the U.S. over the Gaza conflict and his leadership, with many Democrats planning to boycott his upcoming address to Congress. Netanyahu’s close aides, strategic affairs minister Ron Dermer and national security adviser Tzachi Hanegbi, are scheduled to discuss the issue in Washington on Thursday. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant will follow with similar discussions next week. U.S. officials have indicated that releasing the suspended shipment will be more feasible once Israel concludes its military operations in Rafah.
