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In a significant development for U.S.-Israel relations, President-Elect Donald Trump has reportedly promised to reverse President Joe Biden’s controversial arms embargo on Israel if re-elected. The pledge, which Trump intends to fulfill on his first day back in office, calls attention to his commitment to restoring a robust defense partnership with America’s key Middle Eastern ally. The revelation comes from Amit Segal, chief political analyst for Israel’s Channel 12 News and Yedioth Ahronot, who shared the news on social media platform X.
BOOM | @amit_segal reveals Trump’s first promise to Israel. Trump promised @netanyahu that on the first day of his new term, he will cancel all restrictions and delays on the transfer of armaments and combat equipment. pic.twitter.com/nIdb4RTXnR
— Mike (@Doranimated) November 15, 2024
Trump’s pledge comes in response to Biden’s decision in April 2024 to halt the shipment of 3,500 unguided munitions to Israel. The delay, unprecedented in U.S.-Israel defense relations, has sparked widespread criticism and added tension to the bilateral relationship.
The halted shipment, initially approved by Congress in 2021, included 1,800 2,000-pound bombs and 1,700 500-pound bombs. These “dumb” munitions, typically equipped with guidance kits to convert them into precision-strike “smart” bombs, were specifically intended to support Israel’s military operations, particularly in areas such as Rafah. Despite their approval and readiness for shipment, the Biden administration paused the transfer, citing undisclosed concerns that have led to speculation about its motivations.
For Israel, the delayed shipment is not merely a logistical setback but a strategic one, as it affects the country’s ability to maintain its qualitative military edge (QME). The QME is a cornerstone of U.S. policy in the Middle East, ensuring Israel’s military superiority over potential adversaries in the region. The embargo has raised questions about whether the Biden administration is reevaluating this long-standing commitment.
Trump to release arms embargo to Israel once he takes office on January 20th.
Trump strengthens America’s continued support for its strategic partnership and ally in the Middle East.
Israel has been in continuous conflict since the October 7th attack lead by terrorist group… https://t.co/JfglJejbZP
— Kris Monaco (@Kris_Monaco) November 15, 2024
The decision to halt the munitions followed reports during Vice President Kamala Harris’s failed presidential campaign that she had expressed openness to considering an arms embargo against Israel. This stance, reportedly made to anti-Israel Arab groups, added fuel to the controversy. Critics argue that the Biden administration’s actions align with a broader shift in Democratic Party sentiment, where progressive voices have increasingly scrutinized U.S. military aid to Israel.
The embargo has been interpreted by some as an effort to pressure Israel on its policies in Gaza and in Israel’s biblical heartland, known as Judea and Samaria, areas where U.S. administrations have traditionally sought to exert diplomatic influence. However, others view it as a capitulation to anti-Israel factions within the Democratic Party, potentially jeopardizing decades of bipartisan support for Israel.
In contrast, Trump’s commitment to rescind the embargo represents a stark departure from Biden’s policy. Amit Segal reported that Trump stated to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, “On the first day of my term, I will cancel all restrictions and delays on the transfer of armaments and combat equipment.” This pledge reflects Trump’s broader policy approach during his first term, when he championed strong ties with Israel through measures such as relocating the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights.
For Israel, Trump’s promise signals a return to a more supportive U.S. posture. It also reassures Israeli leaders who have expressed concern over the implications of Biden’s policies for Israel’s national security.
Trump’s promise could significantly impact the trajectory of U.S.-Israel relations, restoring confidence in the strategic partnership at a time of growing regional instability. The pledge may also resonate with key voter blocs in the U.S., particularly pro-Israel constituencies and evangelical Christians, who have been critical of Biden’s approach.
However, the reversal is likely to face resistance from progressive Democrats and critics of U.S. military aid to Israel. They argue that unconditional support enables policies they view as counterproductive to peace efforts in the region. The debate highlights the growing polarization over U.S. policy toward Israel, which has traditionally been a bipartisan issue.
Edited by: Fern Sidman
