In a surprising move, the Biden administration has reportedly delayed certain arms shipments to Israel, a close ally of the United States. According to four sources familiar with the matter, the shipments, which include Boeing-made Joint Direct Attack Munitions and Small Diameter Bombs, have been held up for at least two weeks, in what appears to be a political message to Israel.
While the sources did not provide further details on the nature of the holdups, they come at a critical time when the U.S. is publicly urging Israel to postpone its planned offensive in Rafah. The delay of these arms shipments is seen as a way for the U.S. to pressure Israel to take steps to prevent civilian casualties in the conflict.
The White House and Pentagon have declined to comment on the reports, but White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reaffirmed the U.S.’s commitment to Israel’s security, stating that it is “ironclad.” However, when pressed about the delayed arms shipments, she acknowledged that “two things could be true” and emphasized the importance of having “tough, direct conversations” with Israel to protect civilian lives.
The Pentagon also stated that there has been no policy decision to withhold arms from Israel, but the delay in shipments is still significant. It is the first time such a delay has occurred since the Biden administration fully supported Israel in its fight against Hamas, following the militant group’s attack on Oct. 7, which resulted in the death of 1,200 people and the abduction of 250 others.
This delay in arms shipments comes at a critical time for Israel, as it continues its campaign to destroy Hamas. The conflict has already claimed the lives of over 34,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, and has left many of Gaza’s 2.3 million people on the brink of starvation. The situation has also sparked protests in the U.S., with demands for universities and the Biden administration to withdraw their support for Israel, including the provision of weapons.
However, despite the delay in arms shipments, the Israeli government remains resolute. A senior Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that while they cannot confirm the specific holdup, they are prepared to do whatever it takes to defend their country. “As the prime minister has already said, if we have to fight with our fingernails, then we’ll do what we have to do,” the official said.
This move by the Biden administration sends a strong message to Israel that the U.S. is committed to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict. It also shows the U.S.’s concern for the well-being of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire. By delaying these arms shipments, the U.S. is urging Israel to take necessary steps to minimize civilian casualties and work towards a peaceful resolution.
The U.S. has always been a strong ally of Israel, and this delay in arms shipments should not be seen as a weakening of that relationship. Instead, it is a reflection of the U.S.’s commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region. As the situation in Gaza continues to escalate, it is crucial for both the U.S. and Israel to work together to find a lasting solution that benefits all parties involved.
In conclusion, the Biden administration’s decision to delay certain arms shipments to Israel is a clear indication of their commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. While it may be a tough stance, it is a necessary step to protect innocent lives and push for a peaceful resolution. The U.S. remains a strong ally of Israel and will continue to work towards a lasting peace in the region.
