Israeli President Acknowledges Dispute Between Netanyahu and Biden Over U.S. Arms Supply

Isaac Herzog, the President of Israel, referenced the recent disagreements between Benjamin Netanyahu's government and the Biden administration regarding the supply of American weapons to Israel during his speech at the annual July 4th (U.S. Independence Day) ceremony at the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem. Herzog stated, "Like any family, there is not always agreement on every issue, and this is natural. Differences of opinion do not undermine the broad friendship and alliance between our two countries. This alliance keeps us connected to our shared story and advances the vital interests of both countries." He added, "On behalf of the government and people of Israel, I sincerely thank President Biden, the U.S. government, Congress, and the American people for the support and solidarity that has always been an anchor for our security and has been expressed in various ways since October 7." While Israeli prime ministers typically attend the annual July 4th ceremony at the U.S. Embassy, Netanyahu was absent this year. On July 4, Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the reduction in arms shipments from the United States again but expressed belief that the disagreement with Washington over the process of sending weapons to Israeli forces fighting Hamas would soon be resolved. He had previously raised similar criticisms, which were met with a response from the White House. The White House described the Israeli Prime Minister's comments as "disappointing" and emphasized that no country has worked as hard as the United States to assist Israel and will continue to do so. Joe Biden, the President of the United States, had previously stated on May 7 that the bombs whose shipment to Israel was suspended were being used to kill Palestinian civilians during the war in Gaza. Reuters reported that the U.S. has delivered over ten thousand highly destructive bombs and thousands of Hellfire missiles to Israel. Netanyahu called Biden's decision to limit arms shipments to Israel unacceptable. Following Netanyahu's criticisms, the White House canceled a U.S.-Israel meeting regarding Iran.