The Biden administration has not yet responded to reports that a shipment of U.S. ammunition to Israel was put on hold. Israeli officials confirmed that the shipment was stopped last week, marking the first time since the October 7 attack that a weapons shipment intended for the Israeli military was halted by the U.S.
The Department of Defense, State Department, and National Security Council declined to comment on the news, but reiterated the U.S.’s ongoing support for Israel. Lawmakers from both parties have expressed their opinions on the halted aid, with Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez calling it a move towards a ceasefire and Republican Rep. Jim Jordan criticizing it as abandoning a key ally.
The Biden administration has faced criticism for providing military support to Israel amidst allegations of war crimes. In February, the administration requested assurances from Israel that U.S.-made weapons were being used in accordance with international law, which Israel provided in March.
As the war in Gaza continues, Israeli leaders have expressed intentions to invade Rafah, prompting concerns about civilian safety. The U.S. has advised against a major ground invasion of Rafah without proper planning to protect civilians. The administration is hopeful that Hamas will agree to a ceasefire proposal to avoid an Israeli invasion.
There are also concerns about potential International Criminal Court warrants against Israeli leaders for actions in Gaza, which both Israel and the U.S. oppose. The situation remains complex and ongoing, with uncertainty surrounding the next steps in the conflict.
