Israeli Defense Minister Gallant makes critical visit to the US

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, who is traveling to the US to discuss his country's attacks on Gaza amid ongoing debates that a "large portion" of weapons shipped from the US to Israel "have not arrived," stated, "Our relations with the US are more important than ever."

In a statement from the Israeli Ministry of Defense, it was noted that as part of his official contacts in Washington, Gallant will hold meetings with high-level officials, including US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

The statement noted that in his meetings, Gallant will address Israel's attacks in Gaza, developments on the northern border where clashes with Hezbollah continue, the release of hostages in Gaza, and cooperation between the US and Israel.

Before departing Israel, Gallant told the press, "Our relations with the US are more important than ever."

Arguing that the "transition to the third phase" of the attacks in Gaza "will have major consequences," Gallant said he would discuss these with US officials and that the meetings were of "vital importance" for the future of the attacks in Gaza.

"DRAMATIC DROP" DEFENSE

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a statement at the weekly cabinet meeting, had claimed that arms shipments from the US to Israel had experienced a "dramatic drop" four months ago, and that except for certain parts, the majority of the weapons had not arrived.

On Tuesday, Netanyahu shared a video in which he accused the US of refusing to send arms to his country.

US EMPHASIZES 'ISRAELI SECURITY'

US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller, in a press briefing, responded to the accusations raised by Netanyahu, stating, "Last week, the Secretary (Antony Blinken) in his meeting with the Prime Minister (Netanyahu) directly emphasized our commitment to Israel's security."

Noting that "talking back and forth in public" on this issue would not be helpful, Miller said, "We will let the facts of our actions speak for themselves, as we have done since October 7."

Miller stated that they did not understand what Netanyahu meant when he spoke of "bottlenecks," and that support continues with the exception of one shipment.

News Source: AA