On Wednesday, President Joe Biden announced that the United States will halt the supply of weapons and bombs to Israel if it continues its ground offensive in Rafah. The US has been clear in its position that any offensive in the southern Gaza Strip city must include a credible plan to protect civilians. However, despite these warnings, the Israeli army proceeded with airstrikes and targeted operations in Rafah.
Biden reiterated his stance during a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Despite this, the US suspended an arms shipment to Israel and placed further deliveries under review. The city of Rafah is home to approximately one and a half million Gazans, with Israeli troops blocking emergency aid access at the border crossing. Biden expressed regret that American weapons were being used in Gaza, acknowledging the civilian casualties caused by these bombings.
The president emphasized that Israel has not yet crossed a red line by entering Rafah’s population centers, but made it clear that the US will stop arms supplies once they do. The US remains opposed to operations in civilian areas and will continue to provide support for Israel’s defense systems such as the Iron Dome. However, weapons and artillery that target cities will not be supplied.
Biden stressed that ensuring Israel’s security does not require the use of weapons against civilian populations. He stood firm in his position against attacks on cities and will not condone actions that result in civilian casualties.
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