US provided total of $6.5 billion in security aid to Israel

WORLD  27 June 2024 - 14:00

The United States has revealed providing $6.5 billion in security assistance to Israel since the onset of its conflict with Hamas on October 7, with nearly $3 billion allocated in May alone.

These figures, previously undisclosed, emerged during talks this week with a delegation led by Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The discussions come amid Israeli accusations that the Biden administration has delayed aid, Caliber.Az writes, quoting US media.

A senior US administration official described the assistance as a "massive undertaking," highlighting its complexity and depth in supporting Israel's security efforts.

Despite the ongoing supply of arms, President Biden's administration has held back a shipment of 2,000-pound bombs, citing concerns over their potential use in densely populated urban areas.

Both US officials and Defence Minister Gallant declined to delve into specifics, emphasizing the importance of resolving issues privately between allies.

Gallant outlined Israel's military strategy moving into what he termed "Phase 3" of its conflict with Hamas, focusing on low-intensity operations to eliminate remaining pockets of fighters and foster alternative governance in Gaza.

However, logistical challenges persist due to ongoing combat, infrastructure damage, and fuel shortages. UN and US officials attribute much of the aid slowdown to lawlessness among civilians and criminal gangs attacking aid distribution vehicles.

John Kirby, spokesman for the National Security Council, highlighted concerns over the safety of aid personnel, particularly from the World Food Program and UN drivers.

During Gallant's visit to Washington, Israeli officials met with US counterparts to address these issues, including the provision of protective equipment and communication technology for Gaza, which Israel has restricted.

In Israel, government spokesperson David Mencer criticized UN agencies for exacerbating the aid distribution challenges, accusing them of perpetuating conflict rather than facilitating humanitarian efforts.

Over the years, the US has annually supplied $3.3 billion in security aid to Israel. In April, Congress approved an additional $26 billion for wartime assistance, humanitarian aid, and regional support, as requested by President Biden.

Caliber.Az