The White House paused a shipment of weapons to Israel as Israeli leaders neared a decision to launch an operation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed the pause of one shipment of high-payload munitions, stating that the administration is reviewing security assistance to Israel in light of unfolding events in Rafah. While some senators, including Sen. Lindsey Graham, criticized the delay, Austin emphasized the importance of protecting civilians in the city, particularly from collateral damage caused by 2,000-pound bombs.
Israel’s military announced targeted strikes against Hamas in Rafah, the group’s last stronghold, after approval from Israel’s War Cabinet for a military operation in the city. The U.S. has expressed concerns about Israel launching a major ground operation in Rafah, where over 1 million people are seeking shelter. The Biden administration’s discussions with Israel about addressing humanitarian needs and approaching Hamas have not been adequately addressed, prompting the review of upcoming weapons transfers that could be used in Rafah. As a result, a shipment containing 1,800 2,000-pound bombs and 1,700 500-pound bombs was paused last week.
The stalled shipment raised concerns about the potential for severe damage in urban areas, particularly due to the large 2,000-pound bombs. News of the pause in weapons shipment followed days of the administration downplaying any delays. Israeli tanks seized control of the Rafah border near Egypt as part of the ongoing operation. The paused shipment was not related to the funding for Israel that Congress passed recently. Cease-fire talks are ongoing in the Middle East, with CIA director Bill Burns visiting Israel for discussions with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Israel confirmed the start of the Rafah operation after Hamas agreed to a cease-fire proposal that Israel deemed insufficient. The Biden administration’s decision to pause weapons shipments and provide reasoning for the delay reflects growing concerns over the impact of Israel’s actions on Palestinian civilians. As the situation continues to unfold, there is heightened attention on balancing Israel’s security needs with the protection of civilian lives in the region.
