Cease-Fire Talks Hit Roadblock as Tensions Rise in Israel-Hamas Conflict Over Rafah

President Biden’s warning over halting weapons supplies has put Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel in a difficult position, as he navigates between international pressure for a cease-fire and domestic calls for a full-scale invasion of Rafah in southern Gaza.

Netanyahu, who has been adamant about the necessity of invading Rafah despite American objections, now faces a critical moment in the U.S.-Israel relationship that could impact the next phase of the conflict with Hamas.

In response to Biden’s remarks, Netanyahu stated, “If we need to stand alone, we will stand alone. I have said that, if necessary, we will fight with our fingernails. But we have much more than fingernails and with that same strength of spirit, with God’s help, together we will win.”

The threat of withholding American weapons, including heavy bombs and artillery shells, if Israel proceeds with a major operation in Rafah, has raised concerns about the Israeli military losing crucial support from its main arms supplier.

Former senior Israeli defense official, Amos Gilead, emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship, stating, “The United States provides Israel with a steel dome — it’s not only military support; it’s strategic and political; it’s at the United Nations, the international court, and so on. If we lose the United States with the unbelievable friendship of President Biden, it won’t be forgiven.”

Despite assurances from Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari that they have enough munitions for planned operations, including in Rafah, experts warn that U.S. restrictions could impact the deployment of specific weapons, potentially requiring Israel to adjust its tactics.

The possibility of American-made weapons being withheld has raised concerns within Israel, with former Defense Ministry procurement leader Avi Dadon expressing worry about the impact. However, key members of Netanyahu’s government have vowed to continue the war effort, with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stating that Israel will do “whatever is necessary” to defend its citizens.

The tension between the U.S. and Israel escalated further when Biden acknowledged that U.S. bombs had killed innocent civilians in the conflict, adding to the pressure to rein in Israel’s military actions.

As the conflict continues, the decision to withhold weapons from Israel has sparked criticism from Israeli officials, with Ambassador Gilad Erdan calling it “very disappointing” and “frustrating.” The Israeli ambassador to Washington, Michael Herzog, expressed concern that the move sends the wrong message to Hamas and other enemies in the region.

While some analysts downplay the severity of the crisis, others see it as a significant rift in U.S.-Israel relations. Amid the tensions, Israel’s president, Isaac Herzog, thanked the U.S. for its support and emphasized the importance of resolving disputes between allies.

As the situation unfolds, the world watches closely to see how Netanyahu and Israel will navigate the delicate balance between international pressure and domestic demands in the ongoing conflict with Hamas.