The Biden administration's recent actions, signaling a shift in its stance on the conflict, came as it paused a shipment of bombs amid concerns over Israel's intentions to invade Rafah while cease-fire talks with Hamas are ongoing. This decision follows months of escalating tensions between the U.S. and Israel, a key recipient of American military aid. The move also comes amid mounting pressure on President Biden to take a firmer stance.
Israeli officials have reacted strongly to the U.S. decision. Gilad Erdan, Israel's ambassador to the UN, described it as "very disappointing" and hinted that Biden may have been influenced by pressure from Congress and protests on college campuses. Israel's Foreign Affairs Minister Israel Katz vowed to continue the fight against Hamas, stating that there is no war more just than this one.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refrained from directly commenting on Biden's remarks but shared a video of himself stating, "If Israel is forced to stand alone, Israel will stand alone."
Members of Netanyahu's government expressed outrage over the U.S. threat. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir criticized Biden, suggesting a favorable stance towards Hamas. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich accused Biden of imposing an "arms embargo" on Israel, asserting that Israel would achieve victory despite this.
President Isaac Herzog attempted to calm tensions, thanking Biden for his support and emphasizing the need for respectful dialogue even in times of disagreement. However, Israeli military experts and officials expressed concern over the implications of Biden's decision, questioning its impact on Israel's ability to defend itself effectively.
The U.S. decision to halt the arms shipment, including 2,000-pound bombs, was seen by some as symbolic, with limited immediate impact on Israel's military operations. However, continued disruptions to arms transfers could potentially affect Israel's operations in Gaza in the future.
This is not the first time the U.S. has withheld military aid from Israel. In 1982, President Reagan imposed a ban on cluster weapons sales following a Congressional investigation into their use by Israel in Lebanon.
Meanwhile, the Biden administration missed a deadline to submit a report to Congress on whether Israel is using U.S. weapons in accordance with international law. The impact of this report, once submitted, on Israel's offensive in Gaza remains uncertain.