Far-right Israeli ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir have criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over reports that the government approved the transfer of armored vehicles and weapons from the United States to the Palestinian Authority (PA).
The Israeli Ministers claimed that the move was made without their knowledge and accused Netanyahu of plotting to establish an alternative government with National Unity party leader Benny Gantz.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant denied the reports of an arms transfer, stating that no arms or deadly weapons had been transferred to the PA during his tenure.
Israeli Ministers Criticize US Arms Transfer to PA
![Israeli Ministers](https://ejlaal.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/AP23229457453007-convert.io_-1024x683.webp)
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The US State Department commented that US security assistance to the Palestinian Authority does not include the provision of weapons or ammunition to the PA security forces.
While the Israeli security establishment views the PA and its security forces as important allies in combating terrorism in the West Bank, some hard-right elements in the government have consistently criticized such transfers.
The PA has faced challenges to its legitimacy, particularly in the northern West Bank, where armed groups have taken up weapons and challenged its authority. This has led to a decrease in the PA’s popularity, and Israel has conducted operations in the northern West Bank to address security concerns.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions within the Israeli government regarding its approach to the Palestinian Authority and its security forces.
Source: Times Of Israel