Embassy Statement

January 12, 2008

"The trans-shipment of ammunition via the Greek port of Astakos to a U.S. military stockpile in Ashdod, Israel referred to in a December 31 request for proposal will not take place.  Ιnformation on this matter was provided by Pentagon spokesperson Patrick Ryder on January 10 to the Reuters news agency:"

"The delivery of ammunition is to a pre-positioned U.S. munitions stockpile in Israel in accordance with a congressionally-authorized 1990 agreement between the U.S. and Israel.  This previously scheduled shipment is routine and not in support of the current situation in Gaza.  It was coordinated during summer 2008 and approved by the DoD in October 2008.  The shipment originated in the United States."