WASHINGTON: Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas during his visit to Washington on Monday, emphasizing close cooperation with the United States amid recent strains in bilateral relations.
Gallant’s visit included crucial meetings with CIA Director Bill Burns and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, where talks focused on efforts to bring home Israeli hostages captured during the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
“It is Israel’s primary commitment to return the hostages, with no exception, to their families and homes,” Gallant asserted ahead of his meetings. “We will continue to make every possible effort to bring them home.”
President Joe Biden previously outlined a plan for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages on May 31, aiming to facilitate negotiations to end the conflict. However, negotiations have encountered challenges as Hamas has put forward its own demands, requiring mediation to bridge existing gaps.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced internal pressure, including significant protests urging acceptance of the negotiated deal, while also expressing frustration with the Biden administration over perceived reductions in arms and ammunition deliveries.
In contrast, Gallant emphasized the enduring importance of the alliance between Israel and the United States, stressing its critical role in Israel’s security landscape. “Other than Israel’s own military capabilities, our ties with the US are the most important element for our future from a security perspective,” he underscored.
Despite recent disagreements, US officials have indicated that arms supplies to Israel have largely continued unabated, with the exception of specific items like heavy 2,000-pound bombs, which were temporarily withheld.
During his Washington visit, Gallant is slated to meet with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, senior White House official Brett McGurk, and Amos Hochstein, focusing on regional tensions, particularly those involving Lebanon.
