Israel Reacts To Biden’s Warning: Tensions Rise Amidst Halted Weapons Shipments

• Israel reacts to Biden’s warning on weapons, signaling a shift in U.S.-Israeli relations
• Israeli officials express frustration over domestic pressures on Biden’s decision-making.
• Halted weapons shipments raise concerns over civilian casualties, questioning U.S. influence on Israeli military actions.

EKO HOT BLOG reports that Israel reacted with concern and anger on Thursday to President Joe Biden’s warning that he would halt weapons shipments to the U.S. ally’s military if it proceeds with a full-scale assault on Rafah, southern Gaza, housing over 1 million Palestinians.

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This marked a shift in Washington’s stance on the conflict, following the Biden administration’s halt of bomb shipments last week due to concerns over Israel’s intended invasion of Rafah amid ceasefire negotiations with Hamas.

The decision comes amid mounting tensions between the U.S. and Israel, as the President faces pressure domestically to adopt a tougher stance.

Ambassador Gilad Erdan described the U.S. pause as “disappointing, frustrating,” suggesting it was influenced by pressure from Congress and protests.

Foreign Affairs Minister Israel Katz affirmed Israel’s commitment to combat Hamas, stating, “Israel will continue to fight Hamas until its destruction.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refrained from direct commentary on Biden’s remarks but reiterated Israel’s resilience, affirming, “If Israel is forced to stand alone, Israel will stand alone.”

However, members of the far-right government expressed outrage.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir criticized Biden, stating, “Hamas ❤️ Biden.” Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich accused Biden of imposing an “arms embargo,” asserting Israel’s determination to achieve victory despite pushback.

President Isaac Herzog thanked Biden for his friendship with Israel and urged restraint in criticisms.

Israeli military experts expressed concern over Biden’s announcement. Kobi Michael questioned the implications, highlighting tension between the two nations.

The U.S. decision to halt weapons shipments reflects discontent over civilian casualties in Gaza, straining relations.

Alex Plitsas, a military intelligence expert, characterized the pause as symbolic, unlikely to hinder Israeli operations in Rafah but potentially signaling future repercussions.

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As the Biden administration missed a deadline to submit a report to Congress on Israel’s use of U.S. weapons, uncertainty looms over its impact on the Gaza offensive, which has claimed thousands of lives.

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