Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

Senior US officials speaking anonymously to Reuters have reportedly told Secretary of State Antony Blinken that they have doubts about Israel’s assurances on using US-supplied weapons in accordance with international laws. 

At least seven State Department bureaus contributed to an initial “options memo” sent to Blinken by March 24. The memo reveals conflicting views within the department, with some bureaus advocating for acceptance of Israel’s assurances while others recommend rejection. Four bureaus raised “serious concerns” about non-compliance with international humanitarian laws, citing instances of civilian infrastructure attacks and high civilian casualties.

In contrast, submissions from the Bureau of Political and Military Affairs highlighted the strategic implications of suspending US arms sales to Israel, suggesting it could limit Israel’s defensive capabilities against external threats. Another contribution from the Office of the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism and US ambassador to Israel assessed the assurances as credible.

The State Department has refrained from commenting on the leaked documents. However, spokesperson Matthew Miller said, “On complex issues, the Secretary often hears a diverse range of views from within the Department, and he takes all of those views into consideration.”

Israel has consistently maintained that it is a professional military that follows the rules of law. In a statement, it added that it is “fully committed to its commitments and their implementation, among them the assurances given to the US government.

The full assessment of Israel’s compliance with international norms is expected to be submitted in a report to Congress by May 8.