US PRESIDENT-elect Donald Trump is unlikely to threaten Israel with restrictions on arms shipments and military funding. This is the report from The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) newspaper.
The WSJ report, citing unnamed former officials in the previous Trump administration, said it was difficult to believe that Trump would take such action given his previous experience.
In addition, the former official raised the possibility of resistance from pro-Israel elements in his base and Republicans in Congress.
According to the WSJ, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has every reason to act more freely in his struggle against the Palestinian movement Hamas and the Shia movement Hezbollah based in Lebanon.
Earlier in October, Israeli media reported that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Minister Lloyd Austin sent letters to Israel’s then defense minister, Yoav Gallant, and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer.
The letter contained a threat that the US would impose an arms embargo on Israel if the humanitarian crisis in Gaza was not resolved within one month.
Later, the Axios news portal reported citing a number of sources that Israeli officials promised to immediately improve the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. (Ant/Z-2)
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**Interview with Defense Analyst Dr. Sarah Thompson on U.S. Arms Shipments to Israel**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Thompson. Recent reports suggest that former President Trump’s administration is unlikely to impose restrictions on arms shipments to Israel. Can you provide some context on this decision?
**Dr. Thompson:** Thank you for having me. The decision to maintain an open arms shipment policy to Israel aligns with a longstanding U.S. strategy of supporting Israel’s military capabilities. Trump’s administration historically prioritized strong defense ties with Israel, viewing it as a crucial ally in a volatile region. This continuity in arms shipments is expected to uphold Israel’s security framework.
**Editor:** Many critics argue that such support can escalate tensions in the region. How do you assess the impact of U.S. arms on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
**Dr. Thompson:** That’s a significant concern. The influx of arms can indeed exacerbate conflict dynamics. While proponents argue that a well-armed Israel is necessary for its defense, critics highlight that it can lead to increased civilian casualties and stifles peace negotiations. It’s a delicate balance; the U.S. actions can either promote stability or contribute to further violence, depending on the political context.
**Editor:** Given the current geopolitical climate, what do you believe are the implications of this stance for U.S. relations in the Middle East?
**Dr. Thompson:** The U.S. commitment to arms shipments may solidify Israel’s position but could strain relations with other countries in the region, particularly those sympathetic to the Palestinian cause. It might also impact U.S. credibility as a mediator in peace negotiations. Balancing these relationships is crucial for long-term stability.
**Editor:** Lastly, what should we keep an eye on moving forward regarding U.S. arms policy?
**Dr. Thompson:** We should monitor congressional debates on military aid and arms sales, public opinion on U.S. support for Israel, and the responses from neighboring nations. Any shifts in policy, especially during election cycles, could have significant repercussions not only for Israel and Palestine but for the broader Middle East dynamics as well.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for your insights.
**Dr. Thompson:** My pleasure. Thank you for having me.
