Watan-In a clear sign of tension between the two sides amid the war on Gaza, a senior Israeli official said that the United States has begun delaying the provision of some military aid to Israel.
The Israeli official, speaking to the American ABC News network on condition of anonymity, said that American military aid shipments were arriving very quickly at the start of the war but have become very slow at present.
He added that this pressure on Israel comes as what he described as an attempt to destroy the Islamic resistance movement “Hamas” in Gaza.
While the official indicated uncertainty about the reason for the delay, he confirmed that Israel fully understands the extent of the United States’ frustration with the war and the need for more effort to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza.
American Response
In contrast, American officials stated that there is no change in US policy, and there is no intentional delay in delivering aid or weapons sales that Israel had been previously promised.
The American officials spoke of discussions about the leverage the United States might have to pressure Israel, urging Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to do more to protect civilians.
This comes as Israel considers expanding its military operations by invading Rafah, the city located at the southernmost tip of the Gaza Strip, housing around 1.5 million displaced people.
White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby was asked about the potential slowing down of aid and weapon sales, to which he replied that the United States continues to provide Israel with what it needs.
Shortage of Munitions
Returning to the statements of the Israeli official, he reported that Israel is facing an increasing shortage of 155mm artillery shells and 120mm tank shells.
He added that they also need some sensitive targeting equipment, but he refused to elaborate further.
He mentioned that today’s delays are particularly concerning because European countries are now hesitant to sell their weapons to Israel.
He pointed out that Israel may lose this war because winning in war requires ammunition and legitimacy, both of which Israel’s resources are dwindling, he said.
The official stated that the increasing international pressure on Israel due to some of the tactics it employs to achieve its military objectives means reducing the likelihood of reaching a prisoner exchange agreement or a ceasefire in the near future.