Biden Sends a Clear Message to Israel
In a bid to assert his position, President Biden has made a significant move. After failed attempts at conveying his message through phone calls, emissaries, and joint committee meetings, he opted to stop sending bombs to Israel. This abrupt halt was Biden’s way of communicating to Israeli leaders that his patience has limits.
Strained Relations: A Turning Point, Not a Breaking Point
The decision to pause the delivery of 3,500 bombs represents a significant turning point in the 76-year-old relationship between the United States and Israel. However, it is important to note that this doesn’t necessarily point to a breaking point. The Biden administration continues to allow most other weapons to be sent to Israel. In fact, officials emphasized no final decision has been made on the bombs currently in limbo.
The Goal of the Selective Pause
Mr. Biden hopes this selective pause will prompt Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to reconsider his plans for invading Rafah. The rationale behind this is the fear of widespread civilian casualties caused by American bombs. Therefore, the president also declared he would block the delivery of artillery shells that could potentially be fired into urban neighborhoods of Rafah.
A Deeper Dive into the US-Israel Relationship
The relationship between the United States and Israel has been unique since the declaration of Israel’s independence in 1948. The relationship has seen its share of deep stress, with the United States initially refusing to sell Israel weapons. However, since World War II, the United States has given more aid to Israel than any other country. As of last year, the United States had provided $158.7 billion to Israel since its founding, according to the Congressional Research Service.
Political Reactions to the Bomb Pause
Reactions to Mr. Biden’s decision were polarized. Republicans criticized the decision, arguing that Israel needs the weapons for a war they can’t afford to lose. On the other hand, Democrats and progressives, who have been urging Mr. Biden to limit or cut off arms to curtail Israel’s war, believe the president’s action was long overdue and still insufficient given the high death toll in Gaza.
Looking Ahead: The Potential Impact on US-Israel Relations
Analysts suggest the future of the US-Israel relationship will depend on the next steps. If Mr. Netanyahu defers to Mr. Biden’s judgment on Rafah, the current tension may just be a momentary flare-up. However, if the standoff continues, it could lead to a broader cut-off of weapons, which would have more lasting effects. Whatever the case, these unfolding events underscore the dynamic nature of global political relationships. The world will continue to watch closely as this situation evolves.
