Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Sunday the Israeli claim of a significant reduction in arms shipments from the United States, saying Israel to Israel has been grappling with a "dramatic decrease" in armaments supply for approximately four months.
"About four months ago, there was a dramatic decrease in the supply of armaments arriving from the US to Israel," Netanyahu said in a statement, describing weeks of quiet diplomacy aimed at resolving the issue. "For many weeks, we approached our American friends requesting to expedite the shipments. We did this time and time again. We did it at the highest levels, and at all levels, and I want to emphasize – we did it behind closed doors."
Despite these efforts, Netanyahu said, the situation remained largely unchanged. "We received various explanations, but one thing we didn't receive: the basic situation didn't change. Certain items arrived in a trickle, but the bulk of the armaments remain behind."
After months without significant improvement, the prime minister said he decided to make the issue public. He explained this decision as a strategic move based on experience: "I did this based on years of experience and knowing that this step is crucial to dislodge the bottleneck."
Netanyahu acknowledged that his public stance might invite criticism, drawing parallels to previous controversial positions he has taken on issues such as the Iran nuclear deal and Palestinian statehood. "I anticipated that this would involve personal attacks against me from within and without," he said, adding, "But I am willing to absorb personal attacks for the sake of Israel's security."
He emphasized his responsibility to ensure Israel's military readiness: "As the prime minister of Israel, my job is to do everything to ensure that our heroic fighters have the best combat means."
While expressing concern over the arms supply issue, Netanyahu also noted his appreciation for overall US support. "I greatly appreciate President Biden and the American administration's support for Israel," he stated. "Since the beginning of the war, the US has given us support in spirit and material – through defensive and offensive means."
Netanyahu concluded on a cautiously optimistic note, suggesting recent developments might lead to a resolution. "In light of what I've heard in the last day, I hope and believe that this issue will be resolved soon," he said. He also stressed Israel's resilience, stating, "There is one means we have that has always tipped the scales: the bravery and determination of our fighters – and with this weapon, we will win."
