In a firm but calibrated move, President Joe Biden announced that the United States would not supply Israel with offensive weaponry it could use in an all-out assault on Rafah, the last major Hamas stronghold in Gaza. This declaration comes amidst heightened concern for the over one million civilians taking refuge in the area and signifies a notable shift in the U.S.’s approach to its historically steadfast ally.
Biden, addressing the situation in a candid interview with CNN, maintained that while the U.S. is unwavering in its commitment to Israel’s defense, providing Iron Dome rocket interceptors and other defensive arms, the administration will draw the line at enabling warfare in dense civilian areas such as Rafah. Biden stated, “if Israel goes into Rafah, we’re not going to supply the weapons and artillery shells used.”
The implications of Biden’s stance are profound, especially following the October 7 attack by Hamas that resulted in significant Israeli casualties and captives. This recalibration in military aid indicates a growing divergence from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, which has been further evidenced by a recent pause in a heavy bomb shipment to Israel.
The halted shipment encompassed 1,800 2,000-pound bombs and 1,700 500-pound bombs. According to a senior U.S. administration official, the concern primarily revolved around the use of larger explosives in densely populated urban areas and the resultant civilian casualties.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed the delay, emphasizing that while ensuring Israel’s self-defense remains a priority, some security assistance shipments are under review in light of the developments in Rafah. This pause aligns with a broader assessment by the Biden administration of whether the airstrikes on Gaza and the impediments to aid delivery breach international and U.S. laws aimed at protecting civilians during conflict.
Despite the deferment of the bomb shipment and the potential for further restrictions, Biden was clear about the ongoing support for Israel’s security. “We’re not walking away from Israel’s security,” he asserted. “We’re walking away from Israel’s ability to wage war in those areas.”
The administration’s decision has been met with mixed reactions. Some have commended Biden for exercising leverage to encourage a more measured Israeli approach, while others, including prominent Republican figures, have rebuked the move as potentially emboldening Israel’s adversaries. Senator Lindsey Graham expressed vehement opposition, stating, “If we stop weapons necessary to destroy the enemies of the state of Israel at a time of great peril, we will pay a price.”
On the Israeli side, the ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, expressed disappointment and frustration, suggesting that the move stemmed from political pressure on Biden from Congress, the U.S. campus protests and the upcoming election. This announcement also comes amid ongoing cease-fire negotiations and as Israel conducted a military operation in Rafah, characterized as limited in scope by U.S. officials, aiming to cut off support to Hamas.
Relevant articles:
– Biden says US won’t supply weapons for Israel to attack Rafah, Defense News, 05/09/2024
– Biden says US won’t supply weapons for Israel to attack Rafah, in warning to ally, The Associated Press, 05/09/2024
– Biden: U.S. will halt deliveries of offensive weapons if Israel invades Rafah, ActionNewsJax.com, 05/09/2024
– Joe Biden says US will stop some weapons shipments to Israel if it invades Gaza city of Rafah, Sky News, 05/09/2024
– Joe Biden says US will stop some weapons shipments to Israel if it invades Gaza city of Rafah, Yahoo Singapore News, 05/09/2024