In a recent meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, US envoy Amos Hochstein refuted claims made by Netanyahu that the US is withholding weapons and ammunition. According to a senior US official, Hochstein described these comments as “unproductive” and “completely untrue.” Additionally, US Ambassador to Israel Jack Lew reiterated to Netanyahu that his comments were inaccurate, emphasizing the arms transfers the US has made to Israel in recent months.
This exchange comes amidst mounting frustration from the US administration towards Netanyahu’s public statements. A senior administration official called the Israeli prime minister’s remarks “perplexing” and “wrong.” This public dispute is occurring against the backdrop of high tensions in the region, including the conflict in Gaza and the potential for further clashes between Israel and Hezbollah.
US officials have reportedly expressed a desire for the Biden administration to take a stronger stance in responding to Netanyahu’s comments. As a result of this frustration, one meeting of the US-Israel Strategic Consultative Group (SDG) was postponed. Although the meeting was originally intended to discuss Iran, it was ultimately rescheduled, with US and Israeli officials continuing discussions throughout the week.
Netanyahu’s claims about the US withholding weapons were based on a video posted online, where he alleged that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had assured him of efforts to address logistical challenges. Blinken declined to discuss the specifics of his conversation with Netanyahu, but emphasized the US commitment to ensuring Israel’s defense needs are met. While one shipment of heavy bombs remains on hold, Blinken stated that ongoing processes are in place to fulfill Israel’s requirements over time.
