Biden’s Cautious Approach to US-Israel Military Aid Amidst Rafah Concerns
Amidst escalating tensions in Rafah, US President Joe Biden has taken a cautious approach towards providing Israel with offensive weapons. In an interview with LA News Center, Biden expressed concerns about the well-being of over a million civilians sheltering in the city, should Israel launch a full-out assault.
Biden’s Conditional Aid
While the US remains committed to Israel’s defense, Biden emphasized that he would not supply weapons typically used in urban warfare. Specifically, Biden referred to the pause on a shipment of heavy bombs, saying, “If they go into Rafah… I’m not supplying the weapons that have been used historically to deal with… population centers.”
Historical US Military Aid to Israel
The US has a long history of providing substantial military aid to Israel. However, in recent times, there has been a growing rift between the Biden administration and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government over the use of force in Gaza.
Specifics of the Paused Shipment
The halted shipment was supposed to include a mix of large and small explosives. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin justified the pause, citing the potential for indiscriminate damage in densely populated areas.
Consequences of the Pause
Israel’s Ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, called the decision “disappointing” and attributed it to political pressure. Additionally, House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell have expressed concerns.
Biden’s Balancing Act
Biden faces criticism from both sides. Some demand a stronger stance against Israel’s actions, while others accuse him of diminishing US support for a crucial ally. Senator Bernie Sanders has stated that the pause on big bombs is only a “first step.”
Austin’s Perspective
At a Senate hearing, Austin emphasized the need for Israel to use “the right kinds of weapons for the task at hand.” He cited the potential for excessive collateral damage with large bombs.
Evolving Israeli Operations
Israeli troops have taken control of Gaza’s Rafah border crossing. However, the White House has described this as a limited operation that has not yet reached the scale of a full-on invasion as warned against by Biden.
Israel’s Continued Attacks
Israel has also carried out targeted strikes and ordered the evacuation of 100,000 Palestinians from Rafah. Concern mounts within the White House about the situation unfolding in Rafah.
US Munitions Transfer Review
The State Department is reviewing the continuation of transfers of Joint Direct Attack Munition kits, which enhance bomb precision, to Israel.
Symbolic and Substantive Impact
Itamar Yaar, former deputy head of Israel’s National Security Council, views the move as largely symbolic, but a potential warning to Netanyahu to prioritize US interests.
Historical US-Israel Aid Tensions
Tensions over US aid to Israel have existed throughout history. Past presidents have used such leverage to influence Israeli actions, including Eisenhower, Reagan, and George H.W. Bush.
Data sourced from: cnbc.com
