President Biden recently paused an arms shipment to Israel in order to prevent U.S.-made weapons from being used in a potential assault on the city of Rafah, with a concern over potential civilian casualties. This move signifies a growing divide between the U.S. and Israel regarding the ongoing conflict in the region. The decision to delay the delivery of the 3,500 bombs marked the first time Biden has used his power to influence Israel’s actions in the war, following a Hamas-led terrorist attack on October 7. Democratic allies in Congress had previously urged him to limit or halt arms shipments, which he had refused until now due to his staunch support for Israel’s fight against Hamas.
The administration began reviewing arms shipments last month when it seemed Israel was considering an assault on Rafah. Initially, Biden maintained that Israel should not attack the city without a plan to minimize civilian casualties, but recent developments led the White House to doubt the feasibility of such a plan. Despite Israel’s actions that indicated a potential move towards an assault on Rafah, they claimed that these were limited operations intended to target Hamas fighters and infrastructure connected to recent rocket attacks. The evacuation of civilians from Rafah and airstrikes on border areas were seen as measures to maintain pressure on Hamas while discussions for a ceasefire took place in Cairo.
President Biden, in a speech at a Holocaust remembrance ceremony, reiterated his support for Israel while not mentioning the decision to withhold arms. The administration clarified that they are not halting all weapons shipments to Israel and the arms in question are not permanently withheld at this point. The administration recently approved $827 million worth of weapons and equipment aid for Israel, and they intend to send the full amount appropriated by Congress. However, there is particular concern about the potential impact of 2,000-pound bombs in densely populated areas like Rafah, where a large number of civilians have sought refuge.
Israeli officials revealed the pause in weapons transfer to Axios, with U.S. officials confirming this development later. The frustration within the administration is evident as Israeli warnings against a major operation in Rafah appear to be ignored. A U.S. official stated that the decision to review arms shipments was triggered by Israel’s apparent intent to proceed with an operation in Rafah without a solid plan to prevent civilian casualties. The actions taken by Israel in recent days, such as ordering civilian evacuations and conducting airstrikes, suggest a possible move towards an assault on Rafah, although officials claim they do not represent the beginning of a larger attack.
The growing rift between the U.S. and Israel reflects differing viewpoints on the conflict in Gaza, with concerns over civilian casualties in Rafah playing a central role in Biden’s decision to temporarily withhold arms shipments. The administration’s stance on the issue has evolved from urging caution to expressing doubts about the feasibility of minimizing civilian harm in a potential assault on the city. Despite the recent weapons pause, the U.S. remains committed to supporting Israel’s security and right to exist as an independent state, even in times of disagreement.
