The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed on Tuesday that the first shipment of US weapons had arrived in Israel as the country wages war with Hamas in retaliation for last Saturday’s deadly surprise attacks that killed more than 1,200 civilians, including at least 27 Americans, the New York Post reported.
In a post on X, the IDF confirmed that the first plane with US weapons arrived at Nevatim Airbase in southern Israel Tuesday evening.
IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari said the “advanced ammunition” would allow Israel to strike “significant blows” and prepare for “additional scenarios.” He expressed Israel’s gratitude for US support and assistance.
In Tuesday’s White House press briefing, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said President Biden has directed the Pentagon to surge transfers of ammunition and the interceptors used in Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system.
Sullivan told reporters that the president spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday and discussed any “additional capabilities” Israel might need. He said the president pledged that additional US planes would be arriving in Israel carrying those additional capabilities “in the days ahead.”
Sullivan also noted that the White House is working with Congress to ensure that Israel receives the “critical assets” it needs.
Fox News reported that Boeing is accelerating the delivery of one thousand smart bombs to Israel.
While in Brussels for a meeting with NATO defense ministers on Wednesday, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced another $200 million in weapons for Ukraine and indicated that the Pentagon is preparing to provide support for Israel as well, Stars and Stripes reported.
While there have been concerns that the US and its allies may not have the inventory to continue supplying lethal aid to both Ukraine and Israel, Secretary Austin said the US can “absolutely” supply both countries, saying the US would do everything necessary “to help our allies and partners” while also ensuring that the US can maintain the capability to defend itself and protect its interests.
