Former U.S. Ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, expressed concerns regarding the recent $1 billion arms package proposed by the Biden administration to support Israel amidst its conflict with Hamas. Friedman highlighted that the package, if approved by Congress, would take approximately two years to reach Israel, which contrasts with the immediate ammunition shipments that were withheld by Biden last week when Israel urgently needed them for combat.
Friedman emphasized the critical need for precision-guided kits and bombs to target terror tunnels and minimize civilian casualties. He criticized the micromanagement of Israel's war by U.S. officials who lacked firsthand experience in Gaza, prolonging the conflict and increasing civilian suffering.
Regarding the perception that Israel may not be able to defeat Hamas, Friedman strongly asserted that Hamas could be defeated, drawing parallels to past victories over Nazi and ISIS threats. He warned against sending a message of weakness to terrorists, as it could have repercussions for both Israel and the United States.
Friedman expressed disappointment in the current approach towards negotiating with Hamas and stressed the importance of demonstrating strength and resolve against radical Islamic terrorism to safeguard national security interests.
He concluded by suggesting that a change in policy direction is imperative, indicating a potential shift post-November 5th. Friedman underscored the need for a unified stance against terrorism to protect both Israel and America from future threats.
