Biden threatens to halt weapon sales to Israel if ground offensive in Rafah persists

American President Joe Biden announced on Wednesday that if Israel continues its ground offensive in Rafah, the United States will halt the supply of weapons and bombs. The US has been clear in its position that an offensive in the southern Gaza Strip city must include a credible plan to protect civilians. Biden reiterated this stance during a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. However, despite these warnings, the Israeli army proceeded with airstrikes and targeted operations in Rafah.

Concerns about the situation in Rafah led to the suspension of an arms shipment by the US, with further arms deliveries under review. The city 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.

While Biden emphasized that Israel has not yet crossed a red line by entering Rafah’s population centers, he 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. The US stands firm in its position against attacks on cities and will not condone actions that result in civilian casualties.