Sunday, June 23, 2024

Heading to US, Gallant says meetings ‘critical for the future of the war’

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant headed to Washington, DC, on Sunday for a whirlwind visit whose main aim was to get the United States to unfreeze a shipment of heavy-duty bombs it has been withholding from Israel.

In remarks made before departing, Gallant touted the importance of Israel’s relationship with the United States and underscored the significance of his visit.

“The meetings with the senior government officials are critical for the future of the war,” he said. “During these meetings, I plan to discuss developments [on the southern and northern fronts], in Gaza and Lebanon.”

Gallant continued, “We are prepared for any action that may be required in Gaza, Lebanon, and in additional areas.”

And he noted, “The transition to ‘Phase 3’ in Gaza is of great importance. I will discuss this transition with US officials, touching on how it may enable additional things [to take place], and I know that we will achieve close cooperation with the US on this issue as well.”

The trip came amid a public spat between US President Joe Biden’s administration and the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who on Tuesday issued a video statement attacking the US for its “inconceivable” weapons holdup, claiming that more arms shipments have also been held back. READ MORE