The Biden administration has halted a shipment of ammunition to Israel amid growing concerns over a potential invasion of Rafah in Gaza. Israeli officials were caught off guard, but the White House insisted the decision was unrelated to opposition to the invasion.
The administration has committed to supporting Israel in its war against Hamas, providing $26 billion in military and humanitarian aid, but has warned against moving into Rafah, where over a million displaced Palestinians are seeking refuge.
Biden (Credits: CNN)
The National Security Council reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to Israel’s defense, but the move raises pressure on ongoing cease-fire and hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
CIA Director William Burns is working towards a diplomatic solution, but a Rafah invasion looms, with Israeli leaders saying it’s inevitable. The UN warns such an attack could have catastrophic civilian casualties, and the Biden administration has urged Israel to avoid civilian losses.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (Credits: PBS)
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signaled that Israel may proceed with the invasion, with or without US backing, citing the need for self-defense.
Meanwhile, Democrats are pushing President Biden to ensure that US-manufactured munitions are used following international law, following reports of human rights violations by Israeli military units. The administration faces a delicate balance between supporting Israel’s security and upholding human rights and international law.
