Tel Aviv, Israel – Senior far-right politicians in Israel have expressed criticism towards President Biden’s warning regarding potential weapons shipments to the Israeli military amid a possible military ground assault on Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, known for his ultra-nationalist views, took to social media to suggest that Hamas, the militant group engaged in conflict with Israel, welcomed Biden’s threat to withhold weapons.
Parliamentarian Dan Illouz, a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party, condemned the actions of the U.S. leader, emphasizing the potential impact on Israel and the broader international community. In response, Israel’s President Isaac Herzog, a more moderate political figure, called for restraint and diplomatic resolution at an event commemorating the victory over Nazi Germany during World War II.
During an interview with CNN, President Biden underscored the implications of U.S.-supplied weapons being used in civilian casualties resulting from an offensive in Rafah. The Biden administration recently paused a weapons shipment to Israel over concerns that the weapons would be deployed in the Gaza conflict. The ongoing conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Rafah, with thousands fleeing Israeli airstrikes and seeking refuge in overcrowded hospitals.
Despite mounting pressure to limit military operations in Rafah, Prime Minister Netanyahu remains committed to the offensive, citing the need to eliminate Hamas fighters in the area. Hamas, considered a terrorist group by the U.S. and Israel, continues to launch attacks from Rafah, fueling further tensions in the region. The conflict has raised concerns about international relations and Israel’s strategic position.
The situation in Rafah remains dire, with conflicting reports on casualties and the extent of the conflict’s impact on civilians. As the conflict escalates, experts warn of the complex challenges facing Israel and the broader Middle East region. The ongoing conflict underscores the need for diplomatic solutions and international cooperation to address the root causes of the crisis in Gaza.
In the midst of the conflict, humanitarian concerns persist, with the need for urgent assistance and support for those affected by the violence. The international community continues to monitor the situation in Rafah and the broader implications of the conflict on regional stability. As the crisis unfolds, efforts to find a peaceful resolution remain paramount in addressing the underlying issues fueling the conflict in Gaza.