Last week, the Wall Street Journal reported that the White House and State Department had halted or delayed a shipment of AGM 114 Hellfire missiles and would now require senior policymaker review of all Israeli armament requests. The report indicated senior staff and Cabinet officers were upset with recent diplomatic uproars between Israeli and American delegations in Cairo.
Last Friday, JTA reported this:
U.S. officials denied reports of a change in the procedure through which their government supplies arms to Israel.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, State Department Deputy Spokeswoman Marie Harf said: “Let me be clear: There has been no change in policy, period.” But she also said that, “Given the crisis in Gaza, it is natural that agencies take additional care with deliveries as part of an inter-agency process.”
Israeli officials, for their part, reinforced State Department spokeswoman Maria Harf's denial a day earlier:
"The allegations are unfounded," said Israel's ambassador to the U.S., Ron Dermer. "Israel deeply appreciates the support we have received during the recent conflict in Gaza from both the Obama administration and the Congress for Israel's right to defend itself and for increased funding of Iron Dome."
Democratic and Republican elected officials were quick to
slam the alleged freeze on armaments. Rep. Steve Israel
remarked:
"I can tell you firsthand: When terrorists are firing rockets, it’s no time for behind-the-scenes speculation," Israel said.