US President Joe Biden says the US would not provide offensive weapons to Israel for an assault on Rafah in southern Gaza, due to concerns for the safety of the civilian population, Associated Press reports.
The decision, made in an interview with CNN, reflects a growing divergence between the Biden administration and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. This move follows a pause in the US shipment of heavy bombs to Israel, due to concerns over the potential civilian casualties caused by such bombs in densely populated areas. Instead, the US would only supply defensive arms like the Iron Dome rocket interceptors.
The decision has drawn criticism from some Republicans, who argue it could weaken Israel’s defenses. However, Biden reiterated US support for Israel’s security, emphasizing the need for more precise military operations to minimize civilian harm.
