White House spokesperson John Kirby has recently responded to comments made by Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in which he claimed that the Biden administration was withholding weapons and ammunition. Kirby expressed his confusion and disappointment with Netanyahu’s remarks during a press briefing on Thursday.
“We didn’t know that video was coming. It was perplexing to say the least,” Kirby told reporters when asked about Netanyahu’s comments, which were made in a video address to the Israeli people. The White House spokesperson went on to clarify that the Biden administration has not withheld any weapons or ammunition from Israel, and that their commitment to the security of the Israeli people remains unwavering.
Kirby’s statement comes after Netanyahu accused the Biden administration of not providing Israel with the necessary military equipment to defend itself against ongoing attacks from Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The Israeli leader also claimed that the US had not approved a $735 million arms sale to Israel, which was requested by the Israeli government.
However, Kirby made it clear that the Biden administration has not blocked or delayed any arms sales to Israel. He emphasized that the US remains committed to providing Israel with the necessary resources to defend itself and maintain its security. “We have not changed our policy of providing Israel with the support it needs for its self-defense,” Kirby stated.
The White House spokesperson also addressed the timing of Netanyahu’s comments, which were made just days after a ceasefire was declared between Israel and Hamas. The ceasefire ended 11 days of intense fighting that resulted in the deaths of over 250 Palestinians and 12 Israelis. Kirby expressed his disappointment with Netanyahu’s decision to make such comments at a time when both sides are trying to move towards peace and stability.
“It is unfortunate that these comments were made at a time when we are trying to de-escalate the situation and move towards a lasting ceasefire,” Kirby said. He also reiterated the US’s commitment to working towards a two-state solution and promoting peace in the region.
The Biden administration has been actively involved in efforts to de-escalate the conflict between Israel and Hamas. President Biden has been in regular contact with both Netanyahu and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, and has also dispatched a senior diplomat to the region to meet with leaders from both sides.
The US has also pledged $5.5 million in humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, who have been severely affected by the recent violence. This aid will go towards providing food, shelter, and medical assistance to those in need.
Kirby’s response to Netanyahu’s comments is a clear indication of the strong and unwavering support that the US has for Israel. The Biden administration has made it a priority to maintain a strong relationship with Israel and to continue providing the necessary support for its security and defense.
In conclusion, the White House spokesperson’s statement serves as a reminder that the US and Israel are strong allies, and any claims of strained relations or withheld support are simply not true. The Biden administration remains committed to promoting peace and stability in the region and will continue to work towards a lasting solution to the ongoing conflict.
