US Resumes Weapon Transfers to Israel
“The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.” (Proverbs 16:33)
The US has resumed the transfer of weapons, including Hellfire missiles (pictured), to Israel. (Photo : US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Scott A. Raegen/Released)
The US has resumed weapons transfers to Israel after halting them in mid-August over concerns of Israel’s use of the weapons during Operation Protective Edge.
During the recent war against terrorists in Gaza, Israel used US-supplied Hellfire missiles and tank ammunition over the course of the 50-day conflict.
The White House halted all weapons transfers to Israel pending additional review by the State Department and Pentagon.
The US government’s decision to suspend weapons transfers to Israel during wartime is seen as a consequence of increased tension between Jerusalem and Washington.
According to a report on Israel’s Channel 10, the US officials are said to have told their Israeli counterparts that the decision was in no way a form of disapproval. A senior Israeli official said that he had been assured that the suspension “was just bureaucracy.”
The State Department attempted to downplay the news of the suspension, which was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. A US official quoted by the Journal explained that the conflict in Gaza has “persuaded them [Obama administration] that Mr. Netanyahu and his national security team are both reckless and untrustworthy.”
Spokeswoman Marie Harf said that there had always been a review process in place but many criticized the use of “additional care” imposed on Israel during her time of need.
The news of the resumption of weapons transfers comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lands in the US as he is expected to speak before the UN General Assembly on Monday and meet with US President Barack Obama on Wednesday.
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