The State Department is currently divided over whether Israel is using American-provided weapons in accordance with international law, ahead of a deadline for Secretary of State Antony Blinken to make a determination to Congress. President Joe Biden’s national security memorandum issued in February requires countries receiving US weapons to make assurances that they will use them in a manner consistent with international humanitarian law and human rights law. Blinken must inform Congress by May 8 whether he certifies Israel’s assurances to be credible and reliable.
Human rights groups have accused Israel of committing war crimes and abuses during the war in Gaza, leading several Western countries to raise concerns about complicity in war crimes. Some departments within the State Department have expressed serious concerns over Israel’s compliance with international humanitarian law during the conflict. Despite these concerns, the State Department spokesperson stated that they have received the required assurances from Israel and are preparing a report for Congress.
The concerns regarding Israel’s use of US weapons come in the context of a $26 billion aid package for Israel, which includes funding for defense items and services as well as advanced weapons systems. Progressives in the US are becoming increasingly frustrated with Biden’s support for Israel, especially in light of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. However, Biden has reaffirmed his commitment to Israel in a call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, though the White House has the option to slow military provisions or curtail monetary assistance if Israel is not adhering to human rights laws.
The State Department’s annual report on human rights raised sharp concerns about war crimes reported in the conflict between Hamas and Israel, including reports of systemic torture and degrading treatment of Palestinian detainees. While the report does not represent the US government’s conclusions, Blinken stated that the State Department is looking into the incidents. Despite this, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that there is no evidence of genocide being committed by Israel during the conflict. Blinken has also dismissed charges of genocide against Israel as meritless.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation in Gaza, with Western countries grappling with concerns over complicity in war crimes due to their support for Israel. The State Department’s internal divisions over Israel’s use of American-provided weapons highlight the complexities of the situation and the challenges in ensuring compliance with international law. Ultimately, Blinken’s determination to Congress will be crucial in determining the future of US support for Israel and the ongoing conflict in the region.
