The Biden administration has approved a $1 billion weapon shipment to Israel, following President Biden’s previous statement that he would withhold weapons if Israel attacked Rafah. The announcement was made after notifying Congress and includes offensive weapons such as tank ammunition, tactical vehicles, and mortar rounds. Additional steps are needed before the weapons can be delivered.
National security adviser John Kirby had hinted at this move earlier, emphasizing Biden’s commitment to provide Israel with necessary military capabilities while setting limits on certain types of operations and weapons. Despite Israel’s offensive into Rafah, it has not crossed Biden’s “red line” as of yet.
House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated support for Biden’s decision, suggesting that Congress would not change its stance on the matter. However, the approval of this new weapon shipment may strain Biden’s relationship with progressive Democratic allies who praised his initial decision to withhold offensive weapons.
Biden has been navigating the delicate balance between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian Democrats during Israel’s actions in Gaza. The situation in Rafah has become a contentious issue, with the administration warning Israel about the consequences of escalating the conflict in the area.
The approval of this major weapon shipment is likely to stir up further debate and criticism from various political factions, as Biden grapples with the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
