In a stark message to Israel, President Joe Biden has cautioned that the United States could halt the supply of certain weapons if Israel proceeds with a major ground operation in the Gaza city of Rafah. The warning comes amidst mounting tensions and concerns over escalating violence in the region.
During an interview with CNN, President Biden stated, “If they go into Rafah, I’m not supplying the weapons that have been used historically to deal with Rafah.” He reiterated the commitment to ensure Israel’s security but emphasized opposition to actions that could result in extensive civilian casualties.
Despite strong objections from the US, Israel appears to be on the brink of launching a large-scale invasion of Rafah, which is considered Hamas’s last major stronghold in the densely populated southern Gaza region. US officials have cautioned that such an operation could lead to significant civilian casualties, particularly with the influx of refugees from other parts of Gaza into Rafah.
President Biden clarified that the US does not classify the current situation in Rafah as a ground operation, as Israeli forces have remained on the border. However, he made it clear that any incursion into populated areas would not receive American support.
Acknowledging previous instances where US weapons were used by Israel resulting in civilian casualties, President Biden stated that Israel had not yet crossed a “red line.” Nevertheless, his remarks mark the strongest warning issued by the president regarding a potential ground invasion of Rafah and the first time he has suggested the possibility of halting weapons shipments to Israel.
Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, expressed disappointment with President Biden’s statement, describing it as difficult to hear from an ally. Meanwhile, the US has already postponed a shipment of thousands of bombs to Israel and is reviewing future deliveries.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed the delay during a Senate testimony, noting that the decision would likely impact future Israeli airstrikes given the rate at which Israel has been conducting bombings.
Efforts to reach a ceasefire continue alongside negotiations for the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners. Talks between Israel and Hamas delegations in Cairo have resumed through mediators.
The situation in Gaza remains tense as Israel tightens its grip on Rafah, prompting concerns over the worsening humanitarian crisis and rising civilian casualties. The US continues to scrutinize its weapons transfers to Israel, emphasizing the need to address concerns over civilian welfare and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
As the conflict persists, pressure mounts on President Biden domestically to take decisive action to curb Israeli operations in Gaza and mitigate civilian suffering. The closure of key aid entry points, including Rafah, further exacerbates the humanitarian situation, leaving thousands of civilians vulnerable to the escalating violence.