The Biden administration is under pressure to make a critical decision this week regarding its military support for Israel’s war in Gaza. The administration is set to deliver a formal verdict on whether the airstrikes on Gaza and restrictions on aid delivery have violated international and U.S. laws designed to protect civilians during times of conflict.
If the decision goes against Israel, it could increase pressure on President Joe Biden to limit the flow of weapons and money to Israel’s military. The administration agreed to review Israel’s use of U.S.-provided weapons and military assistance in February, following demands from Democrats in Congress.
The review also includes an assessment of whether Israel has obstructed the delivery of U.S.-supported humanitarian aid to Gaza. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller stated that they are working to meet the deadline for completing the review.
The decision comes at a critical time as cease-fire negotiations are in turmoil and Israel threatens an offensive on the city of Rafah in Gaza. Lawmakers from both parties are framing the decision as a test of whether the U.S. will hold its foreign military partners accountable for human rights violations.
Critics argue that Israel’s actions in Gaza have gone beyond what is allowed under international law, with high civilian casualties and attacks on protected sites. The administration’s findings will be closely watched as they could impact the future of U.S. military support for Israel.