Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his security cabinet's decision to approve the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon was heavily influenced by Washington's commitment to end its unofficial restrictions on weapons and military equipment – limitations that had impacted military operations and resulted in IDF personnel casualties.
In addition to lifting these unofficial restrictions, Israel Hayom has learned exclusively that the United States will provide Israel with previously restricted weapons components. The agreement encompasses both enhancement modules that substantially improve existing weapons' capabilities and complete weapons systems that Washington had previously declined to transfer. This development marks a significant upgrade in strike capabilities against targets that had previously proven resistant to Israeli military operations.
Security and diplomatic officials in Jerusalem and Washington confirm that a wide range of critical military supplies will now be made available, including multiple categories of munitions, artillery and tank shells, precision-guided weapons, essential replacement parts, and several dozen Caterpillar D9 armored bulldozers.
These bulldozers play a crucial role in combat operations, especially in clearing operational routes and neutralizing booby-trapped structures. A significant number of these vehicles sustained damage during operations in the Gaza Strip from anti-tank missiles and explosive devices, with Hamas forces specifically targeting them due to their tactical significance. Several were destroyed completely, while others required extensive repairs and replacement components.
Intelligence reports indicate that multiple incidents in October involved explosions from underground devices striking tanks and armored vehicles, resulting in casualties among the crews. Senior officials from both countries indicate that ending the unofficial restrictions and agreeing to provide previously withheld weapons systems represents a marked departure from the Biden administration's earlier position. This shift primarily reflects a change in State Department strategy, which had previously sought to influence Israel's military operations, particularly regarding advances into Rafah and Khan Younis.
Analysts attribute this policy adjustment to the anticipated leadership transition following President Donald Trump's re-election victory, as Trump and his advisers had consistently criticized the unofficial restrictions on military support to Israel during the conflict.
Trump's team maintains close communication regarding US-Israel dialogue across military and diplomatic channels. They received comprehensive briefings on the weapons transfer policy changes and ceasefire terms. While welcoming the restoration of calm, they have expressed strong opposition to what they characterize as the Democratic administration's pressure tactics on Israel.
