KATHMANDU: Israeli officials expressed dismay over President Joe Biden's decision to pause a shipment of certain weapons to Israel due to concerns about Israel's planned expansion of a military operation in Rafah, which the United States does not support. Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Gilad Erdan described the move as "difficult and very disappointing," while Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir criticized Biden, suggesting that "Hamas loves" him.
Biden clarified in an interview with CNN that while the U.S. would continue to supply Israel with defensive arms like Iron Dome munitions, it would not provide weapons historically used in dealing with situations like Rafah if Israel were to proceed with the operation there. This decision followed discussions with Israel on its intended approach against Hamas in Rafah, with U.S. officials emphasizing the need for Israel to operate differently to protect civilians.
The prospect of a ground assault on Rafah, located in the southern part of Gaza, raised concerns about the safety of the 1.3 million civilians who had evacuated from other parts of the territory to escape Israel's military response to Hamas' attack on October 7. The Biden administration reiterated its stance that it would not support an invasion of Rafah unless Israel presents a credible plan to safeguard civilians.
During an April 4 phone call, Biden reportedly warned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that military aid would be withheld unless Israel alters its approach to warfare.
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