Speaker Johnson: Biden Having ‘Senior Moment’ on Israel Weapons

House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed his concern regarding President Joe Biden’s recent statement, wherein he hinted at withholding U.S. weapons from Israel in case of an assault on Rafah. Johnson described it as a potential “senior moment,” feeling disillusioned by what he perceives as a breach of promises made to secure a substantial foreign aid package amounting to nearly $100 billion.

In a conversation with Politico following the rejection of an attempt to remove him from his position by House members, the Louisiana Republican highlighted his pre-existing apprehensions about the United States possibly discontinuing weapon supplies to Israel even before Biden’s declaration.

“My reaction honestly was: Wow, that is a complete turn from what I have been told even in, you know, recent hours,” Johnson said. “I mean, 24 hours ago it was confirmed to me by top administration officials that the policy’s very different than what he stated there. So I hope that’s a senior moment.”

Johnson recounted discussions with Biden administration officials who refuted claims of weapons being withheld, asserting that such actions do not contradict the agreements tied to the foreign aid package, as assured by the president.

“I got commitments from top administration officials before we passed the supplemental package for the aid to Israel that that would not happen,” said Johnson, adding that he was told “in writing and verbally” that there would be no delay.

He said he also spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu on Tuesday about the matter.

“He described exactly what was happening before the news was confirmed,” said Johnson. “I went straight to the White House, and I said, ‘What gives? Somebody’s going to have to explain this to me because it’s very different than what I was told.'”

Moreover, Johnson clarified that any delay in weapon deliveries, if existing, pertains to previous batches and not the supplementary aid designated for Israel.

Expressing skepticism, Johnson suggested that Biden’s remarks on CNN deviated from the established script, indicating a potential lapse rather than a calculated policy shift.

Regarding the motion to remove him from his position, Johnson criticized it as untimely amidst pressing national and global issues, stressing the necessity for a functional Congress devoid of petty political maneuvers. He interpreted the resounding defeat of the motion as a collective acknowledgment across party lines that the current climate demands seriousness and cooperation.

Despite disagreements, Johnson expressed willingness to collaborate with representatives who initiated the motion, affirming his lack of animosity towards them and his commitment to constructive engagement. However, he made clear his stance against acceding to demands to defund special counsel Jack Smith, who is overseeing legal proceedings against former President Donald Trump.

{Matzav.com}