U.S. Watchdogs to Release Reports on Arms Transfers to Israel

Government oversight bodies are set to release findings from multiple investigations into the Biden administration's provision of U.S. weapons to Israel for its military operations in Gaza. These inquiries come amid concerns about potential violations of laws governing arms transfers to countries accused of human rights abuses.

The forthcoming reports from inspectors general of the State Department and Pentagon follow internal complaints that the export of billions in arms to Israel may violate laws prohibiting military assistance to governments accused of human rights violations or impeding humanitarian aid. This development occurs approximately 11 months after the conflict's onset on October 7, 2023.

While the Biden administration acknowledges the possibility of U.S. weapons being used in Gaza in violation of international law, it maintains that continued arms transfers are justified for Israel's defense. Israel contends that Palestinian casualties result from Hamas's operations near civilian areas and denies restricting aid access.

"We welcome differing perspectives from our workforce on the policies the United States pursues, but this claim about the actions of senior officials couldn't be further from the truth."

The inspectors general investigations represent one of the final internal checks on an administration determined to supply weaponry to Israel, despite criticisms of the country's military tactics and the significant civilian death toll in Gaza. Notably, some of Washington's closest allies, including Britain, Canada, Japan, Netherlands, Spain, and Belgium, have restricted military equipment transfers to Israel due to legal and political concerns.

Since October 7, 2023, Israel has received over 50,000 tons of missiles, bombs, artillery, and other military equipment from the United States. This includes at least 14,000 MK-84 2,000-pound bombs and 6,500 500-pound bombs, as disclosed by U.S. officials in late June 2024.

The investigations come as federal employees from more than 30 agencies have accused the watchdogs of inadequate oversight of Washington's arms policy. The employee coalition, Feds United for Peace, claims that U.S. officials are knowingly violating domestic and international law to continue providing weapons to Israel.

Inspectors general offices have defended their oversight efforts, with plans to review vetting practices related to the Leahy Laws and audit sanctions policies in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. The Pentagon inspector general's office also reported ongoing and planned projects related to Israel and Gaza.

Critics, however, remain skeptical that the upcoming reports will hold the Biden administration accountable on the most sensitive issues related to U.S. policy toward Israel. Some officials have expressed disappointment that the inspectors general have not committed to examining whether leadership circumvented laws or manipulated evidence to facilitate arms transfers.

As the situation unfolds, the role of government watchdogs in ensuring compliance with domestic and international law remains crucial. The forthcoming reports may provide critical insights into the legality and implications of U.S. arms transfers to Israel amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.