Is Biden’s ultimatum to Israel a turning point in US-Israel relations?

President Joe Biden issued an ultimatum regarding US weaponry to Israel if they maintained their big offensive in Rafah, Gaza.

However, Biden’s announcement drew condemnation from both Republican and Democratic politicians.

The facts

The US administration’s move intends to withhold some weapons, such as bombs and artillery shells, that are deemed indiscriminate and imprecise.

The US is also looking at prospective sales or transfers of other munitions to Israel, including JDAM kits.

The ultimatum marks a watershed moment in US-Israeli ties since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began seven months ago. Biden’s allies argue the message should not have surprised Israel given previous warnings.

Biden had already approved a halt on the delivery of 3,500 bombs to Israel due to concerns over their use in Rafah.

Republican senators Lindsey Graham and Rick Scott criticised Biden’s decision, while several Democrats, like Rep. Josh Gottheimer, expressed worry and asked for additional information.

Democratic members such as Adam Smith and Chris Murphy backed Biden’s decision, emphasising the restriction on specific types of firearms.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken indicated that the US believes Israel has killed more civilians than Hamas, and he asked Israel to reduce civilian casualties.

The State Department issued a report alleging that Israeli forces in Gaza utilised US weaponry in violation of international humanitarian law.

Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen criticised the report for failing to make clear determinations and expressed concern that it may have provided political cover for Netanyahu.

Some senators, like Chris Coons, defended Biden’s actions, emphasizing his forceful stance despite the blowback.

The arguments

Republican senators, on the other hand, claim that Biden’s ultimatum sends a negative message to Israel, undermining the US-Israel alliance.

They say that Biden’s move may connect him with his party’s pro-Hamas faction.

The ultimatum is viewed as undermining Israel’s defence strategy and harming Israeli people.

Both Democrats and Republicans have expressed worries over Biden’s decision. Some Democrats are concerned about the message it sends to Hamas and terrorist proxies. Republicans believe it undermines Israel’s capacity to defend itself successfully.

Biden’s defence

Biden and his supporters justify the ultimatum as a way to reduce civilian casualties. They say that withholding certain weaponry is intended to prevent indiscriminate strikes, making Israel’s defence more specific.

Biden’s supporters argue that the decision demonstrates considerable consideration of military strategy and humanitarian concerns.

Impact on US-Israeli relations

The ultimatum represents a dramatic shift in US-Israeli ties, demonstrating a readiness to hold Israel accountable for its military actions. It highlights Biden’s efforts to strike a balance between support for Israel and concerns about civilian losses.

However, it raises issues about the future of US-Israeli military collaboration.

The State Department Report and Humanitarian concerns

The State Department’s assessment on US weapons used by Israel in Gaza highlights probable violations of international humanitarian law.

Critics say the report does not go far enough in denouncing Israel’s conduct or addressing humanitarian issues.

Concerns remain regarding the impact of US munitions on civilian casualties in Gaza, highlighting the necessity for a stronger response from the Biden administration.

Biden’s leadership and blowback

Some senators praise Biden’s leadership and argue that he has made strong decisions, despite critiques. They say that Biden’s efforts demonstrate a commitment to tackling the conflict’s intricacies while minimising civilian casualties.

However, criticism from all sides highlights the difficulties Biden confronts in handling US foreign policy in the Middle East.