President Joe Biden announced that the U.S. would not supply Israel with certain weapons and artillery shells if its military invades Rafah, a city in southern Gaza where over 1 million people are sheltering. He stated in an interview on CNN that the administration would not provide the weapons historically used for dealing with cities like Rafah, but would continue to ensure Israel’s security with Iron Dome and the ability to respond to attacks. This decision represents a shift in U.S. policy towards the conflict, particularly regarding weapons used by Israel, such as the 2,000-pound bombs that his administration halted in a planned shipment last week.
NBC News reported that the White House put a stop to a shipment of offensive weapons that included 1,800 2,000-pound bombs and 1,700 500-pound bombs. An Israeli official expressed frustration over this decision, with the country’s ambassador to the United Nations calling it “a very disappointing decision, even frustrating.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel’s military would enter Rafah with or without a deal with Hamas. Israel demands that Rafah be excluded from any cease-fire agreement, insisting on the ability to continue military operations in the city even during a cease-fire.
Biden has voiced his opposition to an offensive in Rafah during conversations with Netanyahu, according to White House readouts of their discussions. The President also mentioned the administration’s work with Arab states in relation to the Israel-Hamas conflict, indicating that five Arab leaders were prepared to assist in rebuilding Gaza and transitioning to a two-state solution. When asked about whether these leaders would help govern the area, Biden stated that they would focus on maintaining security and peace while working towards establishing an effective and corruption-free Palestinian Authority.
The decision to withhold certain weapons from Israel in the event of an invasion in Rafah reflects concerns over civilian casualties resulting from massive bombs being used in populated areas. Biden acknowledged that civilians have been killed in Gaza due to the use of such bombs and other methods targeting population centers. The U.S. pause on weapon shipments has been met with mixed reactions in Israel, with some officials expressing frustration and disappointment while others taking a more hardline stance and criticizing the administration.
Israeli national security minister Itamar Ben Gvir accused President Biden of favoring Hamas in response to the U.S. pause on weapon shipments to Israel. However, Biden’s stance seems to be rooted in a desire to prevent further civilian casualties and promote stability in the region. The issue of Rafah has become a point of contention in negotiations for a cease-fire, with Israel insisting on maintaining the ability to conduct military operations in the city as part of any agreement. Despite Netanyahu’s firm stance on the matter, the U.S. continues discussions with Israeli leaders to address the ongoing conflict in Gaza and work towards a resolution that ensures security and stability for all parties involved.
