Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that Israeli soldiers lost their lives in Gaza due to a shortage of ammunition, which he attributed to an arms embargo during the Biden administration. Netanyahu did not specify the number of casualties or the exact timing, but insisted that the embargo ended when President Donald Trump took office. He emphasized the need for Israel to develop a strong, independent arms industry to prevent future shortages and reduce reliance on US military aid, proposing a shift from aid to partnership in weapons development with allies such as India and Germany.

Netanyahu's remarks drew sharp criticism from senior aides to President Biden, who called his statements untrue and ungrateful, pointing to extensive US military support for Israel during the conflict. Critics also noted the political implications of Netanyahu's comments, as similar statements from rivals had previously been condemned by his party. The debate highlights ongoing tensions over military aid and the future of Israel's defense industry.