American officials provided a detailed explanation of US weapons shipments to Israel in meetings this week with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, countering claims from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that military assistance was being delayed. The discussions were part of ongoing tensions between the Biden administration and Netanyahu, who has expressed frustration over perceived delays in armaments. The meetings included experts from various government departments engaging in thorough discussions on the status of munitions shipments. Flight tracking data revealed a consistent flow of US military and Israeli cargo flights delivering aid to Israel since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The data showed that military shipments via air have continued steadily, contradicting Israeli government claims of a slowdown in US military supplies. The US decided to pause one shipment of heavy bombs to Israel due to concerns of potential civilian casualties in densely populated areas. However, other weapons transfers have been ongoing, with hundreds of munitions being transferred each month. The Biden administration attributed Netanyahu’s claims of delays to misunderstandings and clarified the shipment status in discussions with Israeli officials. Discussions are ongoing to resolve the pause in heavy bomb deliveries. White House officials expressed frustration over Netanyahu’s public remarks, dismissing them as politically motivated and incorrect. The administration emphasized its commitment to providing security assistance to Israel and ensuring the delivery of appropriated funds for emergency assistance. Netanyahu responded by stating his willingness to endure personal attacks to secure necessary arms for Israel’s defense. The White House reiterated its position on the matter and expressed readiness for constructive consultations with the defense minister in Washington.
