When Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant meets with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, he is expected to request additional US weaponry and equipment to support Israel’s war in Gaza. This request comes at a time when US weapons sales to Israel are facing scrutiny from lawmakers and critics of President Joe Biden’s support for the country. Gallant’s meetings with top US officials, including National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, are focused on discussing weapons sales and potential alternative strategies for Israel’s military plans in Gaza.
The US-Israel relationship hit a low point when a planned Israeli delegation pulled out of meetings with US officials due to the lack of a US veto on a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Despite the tensions, Israeli defense officials are pushing for faster approval and progress on weapons transfers from the US. Gallant has outlined a wishlist of weapons and equipment, including precision-guided munitions and fighter jets, that Israel wants to expedite delivery of from the US.
While US officials are scrutinizing the weapons sales, there is currently no policy decision to deny Israel’s request for additional weaponry. Despite ongoing discussions on the use of US-provided weapons in Gaza and concerns about potential conflicts with Hezbollah in Lebanon, the US remains committed to supporting Israel’s right to defend itself. However, there are concerns that rapid approval of big weapons sales could lead to Israel stockpiling equipment for future confrontations.
As the war in Gaza continues, Israel has not ruled out the possibility of a conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon if a decisive victory is not achieved over Hamas in Gaza. The Biden administration is weighing whether to condition military assistance to Israel and has publicly opposed a major Israeli incursion into Rafah, where civilians are seeking refuge. Despite the US pressuring Israel to protect civilians in Gaza and seek alternatives to a ground operation in Rafah, weapons sales to Israel have not been halted.
Since Hamas’ attack on Israel in October, the US has completed over 100 foreign military sales to Israel, with multiple shipments included in each sale. While most sales have not required congressional approval, more significant sales, such as fighter jets, will need review and debate in Congress. Democratic lawmakers have called for a suspension of military assistance to Israel unless credible assurances are provided on compliance with international humanitarian law. The Biden administration is conducting ongoing assessments of Israel’s conduct to ensure compliance.
