The U.S. canceled a meeting with Israeli officials after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that President Biden has been withholding the weapons that Israel needs to carry out its war in Gaza. The comment reportedly “enraged” top aides in the White House.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that weapons have not been held up and that the White House is confused by this. “We genuinely do not know what he is talking about,” she said.
Meanwhile, Israeli officials are showing division over Netanyahu’s goal of eliminating Hamas. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a military spokesperson, said this week that this an unachievable goal.
“This business of destroying Hamas, making Hamas disappear – it’s simply throwing sand in the eyes of the public,” he said. “Hamas is an idea, Hamas is a party. It’s rooted in the hearts of the people – whoever thinks we can eliminate Hamas is wrong.”
According to Antiwar.com, “Netanyahu’s office responded to Hagari’s remarks by saying the prime minister’s ends in Gaza remain unchanged. Netanyahu ‘has defined the destruction of Hamas’ military and governing capabilities as one of the goals of the war. The Israeli military, of course, is committed to this.’the statement said.”
