The White House has directed unprecedented and harsh criticism at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, following his statements regarding the delay in Washington's shipment of weapons to Israel. White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated that Netanyahu's comments this week about the delay in U.S. arms deliveries to Israel were "humiliating." Kirby told reporters that "those statements were extremely disappointing and definitely humiliating for us, given the level of support we provide and will continue to provide."
In an English-language video, Netanyahu stated on Tuesday that it is "inconceivable" for Washington to have withheld "weapons and munitions" from Israel in recent months. The White House clarified on Thursday that it was not aware that Netanyahu would release a video regarding U.S. arms shipments to Israel. It described Netanyahu's remarks as "extremely disappointing and troubling to the United States," noting that his comments about U.S. arms supplies were also inaccurate.
Kirby further explained that U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan would meet with Israeli officials on Thursday to discuss a wide range of issues. The administration of President Joe Biden had halted a shipment of 2,000-pound and 500-pound bombs in May due to concerns about the impact they could have in densely populated areas. However, Israel is still set to receive billions of dollars worth of U.S. weapons.
