President Biden’s decision to pause an arms shipment to Israel last week has sparked a growing rift between Washington and Jerusalem over the conduct of the ongoing conflict. The move to withhold 3,500 bombs, including 2,000-pound and 500-pound bombs, was made to prevent a potential assault on the city of Rafah, where over one million Gazans have sought refuge.
This decision marks the first time President Biden has used his power to curtail arms transfers as a means to influence Israel’s approach to the conflict since the recent Hamas-led terrorist attack. While the administration is still reviewing whether to hold back future transfers, the move reflects the increasing frustration among U.S. officials over Israel’s disregard for warnings against a major operation in Rafah that could result in significant civilian casualties.
Israeli officials had previously disclosed the weapons pause, but U.S. officials only confirmed it on Tuesday night. The administration’s concern lies in the potential damage that could be inflicted by the bombs in a densely populated area like Rafah, where many civilians have already been displaced.
Despite the arms pause, the administration has approved a significant amount of aid to Israel, totaling $827 million in weapons and equipment. President Biden reiterated his support for Israel during a speech at a Holocaust remembrance ceremony, emphasizing his commitment to the safety and security of the Jewish people and the right of Israel to exist as an independent state.
As tensions continue to escalate in the region, the decision to withhold arms shipments underscores the complex dynamics at play in the conflict and the challenges of balancing support for Israel with concerns over civilian casualties.