2024-03-30 18:12:34
The publication, citing unnamed Pentagon and US State Department officials, reported on Friday that despite strained relations between Israel and the US, US President Joe Biden’s administration has “quietly” approved the supply of bombs and fighter jets to Israel in recent days. This is said to show that the US government does not see arms transfers as a possible way to influence Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The relationship between Mr. Biden and Mr. Netanyahu is strained at the moment. An Israeli delegation was supposed to go to Washington this week. US representatives wanted to voice their concerns about a ground attack in Rafah and present alternative proposals. But Netanyahu canceled the trip after the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire without objection from the United States.
However, strained relations would not have prevented Mr. Biden from continuing to send weapons and military equipment to Israel, The Washington Post wrote.
Representatives of the US government keep repeating Mr. Biden’s promise to Israel to unconditionally support this country in its war with the Islamist Palestinian group Hamas.
Last week, the State Department approved the delivery of 25 F-35A fighter jets. Congress gave the corresponding authorization back in 2008, so the department did not have to inform the legislators again. The supply of MK84 and MK82 bombs approved this week also received congressional approval some time ago.
According to the US government, efforts are underway to find a new date for the Israeli delegation’s visit to Washington.
2024-03-30 18:12:34