Israel's defense minister is set to meet with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to request additional weaponry and equipment to support Israel's operations in Gaza. This request comes at a sensitive time as US weapons sales to Israel are facing scrutiny from lawmakers and critics of President Joe Biden's support for the country.
The Israeli defense minister's visit to the Pentagon follows talks with top US officials where weapons sales were on the agenda. The relationship between the US and Israel faced tensions as a planned Israeli delegation withdrew from meetings with US officials after a UN Security Council resolution was not vetoed by the US.
Despite the strained relations, Israeli defense officials are pushing for faster approval of weapons transfers from the US. The defense minister is expected to present a wishlist of weapons, including precision-guided munitions and fighter jets, during the meeting with the US Defense Secretary.
While the US remains committed to supporting Israel's defense, concerns have been raised about potential stockpiling of weapons for future conflicts. The Biden administration is also debating conditioning military assistance to Israel amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza and potential military actions in other regions.
US officials have been urging Israel to consider alternatives to major ground operations and to prioritize the protection of civilians. The flow of weapons from the US to Israel has continued, with over 100 foreign military sales made since October.
Democratic lawmakers have called for the suspension of military assistance to Israel unless credible assurances of compliance with international humanitarian law are provided. The US State Department has stated that ongoing assessments of Israel's conduct will continue.
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