If Israel continues the ground offensive in Rafah, the United States will cut off the supply of weapons and bombs. American President Joe Biden said this on Wednesday evening (local time) in an interview with CNN.
Washington has made it clear that it is not in favor of an offensive without a credible plan to protect civilians in the southern Gaza Strip city. Biden “reiterated his clear position” to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday. But the Israeli army continued its airstrikes on Wednesday, saying it would also continue with “targeted” operations in Rafah.
Earlier Wednesday it was announced that the US had suspended an arms shipment due to concerns about Rafah. Other arms deliveries are being “reviewed,” it said on Wednesday. There are currently approximately one and a half million Gazans in the city. The border crossing has been taken by Israeli troops, blocking emergency aid.
“Civilians have been killed by American bombs”
Joe Biden
President USA
“Civilians have been killed in Gaza” by bombs supplied by the US, Biden further lamented during the interview, indirectly recognizing his country’s role in this war. The Democrat said he made it clear to Israel that when they enter Rafah – and according to Biden they have not yet done so – he will stop the arms supply.
(read more below the video)
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Despite the strict language, this is not yet the case. According to Biden, Israel has not yet crossed a red line, CNN writes. The operations took place “on the border,” Biden said. “They have not entered the population centers.” The US continues to oppose operations in the city’s population centers.
“It’s just wrong,” the American president said. The US will continue to ensure Israel’s security, with air defenses for the Iron Dome and ways to defend against attacks from the Middle East. But “we are not going to supply the weapons and artillery that are used against cities.”
Israel “very disappointed” by Biden’s threat on weapons
US President Joe Biden’s threat to no longer supply certain weapons to Israel “has hit home hard and is very disappointing.” Israel’s ambassador to the UN said this.
According to Israeli UN diplomat Gilad Erdan, any pressure on Israel, including from allies, “will give hope to the enemies.”
Tags: President Joe Biden weapons Israel ground offensive Rafah continues
