Anadolu staff
08 October 2023•Update: 08 October 2023
ISTANBUL
The Biden administration plans to announce military aid for Israel as the latter's fighting with Palestinian group Hamas continued for the second day on Sunday, but is concerned that deep political divisions and chaos surrounding the House of Representatives' empty speakership could hamper its approval, according to Axios news.
Most business in the lower chamber has been at a standstill since Kevin McCarthy was ousted as speaker last week in a move led by far-right Republicans.
The American news website reported on Saturday that US officials began talks with their Israeli counterparts for possible military assistance and an announcement could “come as soon as Sunday.”
It said that the issue came up during calls between Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and his Israeli counterpart Yoav Gallant, and between Gen. Erik Kurilla, head of US Central Command, and Israel's military chief, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi.
The matter also came up during a call between US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
A senior Israeli official, according to the outlet, said Netanyahu wants emergency US funding for the purchase of more interceptors for the Iron Dome missile defense system. A US official, it added, said he thinks Biden is committed to providing the funding.
Speaking at a press conference from the White House on Saturday, Biden reiterated the US support for Tel Aviv, saying the US stands with Israel.
"In this moment of tragedy, I want to say to them, to the world and to terrorists everywhere: The US stands with Israel. We will not ever fail to have their back," said Biden.
Saying that Israel has the right to defend itself and its people, the US leader stressed that there is never "justification for terrorist attacks" and his administration's support for Israel's security is "rock solid and unwavering."
Hamas launched Operation Al-Aqsa Flood on Saturday, saying it was in response to the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and increased settler violence. It said it fired rockets and captured many Israelis.
In retaliation, the Israeli army initiated Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, launching air strikes on the besieged Palestinian enclave.
