President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu find themselves at odds over Gaza, signaling a potential clash between the two leaders and raising concerns about potential restrictions on military aid if Israel proceeds with a ground offensive.
Tensions between them have spurred discussions within the U.S. administration on leveraging its influence to encourage Israel to facilitate humanitarian aid to Gaza and minimize civilian casualties in its conflict with Hamas.
Biden holds significant leverage through the supply of U.S. weapons but has refrained from using them despite Netanyahu’s defiance. However, mounting frustration with Netanyahu suggests a possible shift in policy, including conditions on military aid if Israel presses ahead with its planned invasion of Rafah in southern Gaza.
This presents a challenge for Biden, balancing his support for Israel with the need to avoid alienating progressive Democrats and pro-Israel voters.
While no decisions have been made regarding weapons restrictions, Biden’s warning against a Rafah invasion indicates a potential shift in approach. He emphasized the critical defense of Israel but left the door open for imposing conditions, raising speculation about including offensive weapons in such restrictions.
The situation complicates Biden’s reelection bid and his efforts to navigate the crisis without giving Republicans an advantage or further alienating progressive Democrats. Despite being a staunch supporter of Israel, Biden faces pressure to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and prevent further escalation of violence.
Netanyahu remains defiant, pledging to proceed with the military campaign in Rafah despite Biden’s criticism. He views preventing another attack like the one on October 7 as the red line, rejecting Biden’s warnings about the potential consequences of an invasion.
As discussions continue within the U.S. government, there are concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the risk of further conflict. While Biden navigates political pressures and considerations, the fate of U.S. military aid and its implications for Israel’s actions in Gaza remain uncertain.
