The Biden administration is set to make a significant decision this week regarding its military support for Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The administration will determine whether the airstrikes on Gaza and restrictions on aid delivery have violated international and U.S. laws aimed at protecting civilians during wartime.
If the verdict goes against Israel, it could increase pressure on President Joe Biden to limit weapons and financial assistance to the Israeli military. The review was initiated in February following demands from Democrats in Congress to assess the lawful use of U.S.-provided military aid by Israel.
Additionally, the administration must assess whether Israel has obstructed the delivery of U.S.-supported humanitarian aid to Gaza. The State Department aims to complete the review by the deadline, despite potential delays.
The decision comes amidst ongoing cease-fire negotiations and the threat of an Israeli offensive in Gaza, which the U.S. strongly opposes. The conflict has sparked debates within the Biden administration and Congress on how to address human rights violations by foreign military partners.
Israel, the largest recipient of U.S. security assistance, has faced accusations of abuses against Palestinians. The administration's findings are expected to be based on facts and law, rather than strategic interests.
The review is mandated under the Leahy Laws, which require the suspension of aid to foreign security units implicated in gross human rights abuses. The administration's assessment could increase pressure on Biden to reconsider military support for Israel.
Critics argue that Israel's actions in Gaza have exceeded legal boundaries, resulting in high civilian casualties. The administration's decision will have significant implications for U.S.-Israel relations and the ongoing conflict in the region.
