Biden Admin Plans To Hold Weapons Shipments If Israel Attacks Rafah
In an interview with CNN’s Erin Burnett released on Wednesday, President Biden stated that he would withhold weapons from Israel if they continue with their proposed invasion of Rafah, Hamas’ last stronghold in Gaza. The President expressed his concern for the civilian casualties in Gaza and made it clear that the US would not support the use of weapons against population centers.
Biden clarified that the US would continue to send defensive weapons to Israel, such as supplies for their Iron Dome system. However, he emphasized that he would not provide weapons and artillery shells to be used against population centers. He explained that while his administration is committed to ensuring Israel’s security, it is also important to prevent civilian casualties in the conflict.
The decision by the Biden administration to withhold weapons from Israel has been met with criticism from Republicans, who accuse him of delaying the shipment of weapons even after Congress had passed its foreign aid package. This move comes in the midst of an ongoing war between Israel and Hamas that appears to be having an impact on the upcoming presidential election.
Biden has faced intense backlash from the progressive left for providing aid to Israel, with voters in states like Michigan threatening to stay home or vote for another candidate in November. Anti-Israel protests have also erupted across the country, particularly on college campuses, where chants of “Genocide Joe” have been heard.
Responding to these protests, Biden acknowledged the right to free speech and protest but stated that hate speech, threats to Jewish students, and blocking access to classes are against the law. He also mentioned that while these demonstrations were taking place, he had just given a speech on the Holocaust, showing his commitment to addressing the issue of anti-Semitism.
This statement from Biden comes after Israel has taken military action in Rafah, although not yet in the population centers. He emphasized that this action has caused strain in their relationship with Egypt, which he has worked hard to maintain. Biden’s red line for withholding weapons seems to be the invasion of population centers, with the President making it clear to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli war cabinet that they will not receive US support if they cross this line.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has sparked global attention and raised concerns about the civilian casualties and potential humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The UN has called for an immediate de-escalation of the violence, and the US and other countries have also urged both sides to work towards a ceasefire and resume negotiations for lasting peace.
In the midst of this crisis, President Biden’s stated stance on not supporting actions that cause civilian casualties, while also ensuring Israel’s security, highlights the delicate balance that the US must maintain in its relationship with one of its closest allies in the Middle East.
As the fighting continues and tensions rise, all eyes will be on how the Biden administration navigates this complex situation and works towards de-escalation and a peaceful resolution.