President Biden has issued an ultimatum to withhold offensive weapons from Israel if they launch an invasion of Rafah. In response, rocket attacks from Rafah targeted Israel on Friday and Saturday, with Hamas launching rockets at Beersheva and Hezbollah firing rockets at Kiryat Shmona. Tragically, four Israeli soldiers lost their lives within the Gaza Strip on Friday.
Jonathan Conricus, a former IDF combat commander, expressed concerns that tension between the U.S. and Israel could embolden Israel's enemies and lead to increased violence. Former Ambassador David Friedman criticized Biden's policy, stating that it has emboldened Hamas.
Gen. Jack Keane (Ret.) criticized Biden's decision as 'stunning,' while the White House defended its support for Israel, citing past actions to assist in defense against attacks.
Matthew Levitt warned that withholding arms before the release of hostages could empower Hamas and Hezbollah. Hamas currently holds over 100 hostages, including Americans, using them as human shields.
The State Department did not directly address concerns about Biden's decision. The Jewish Institute for National Security of America (JINSA) published a letter from retired U.S. military leaders criticizing the arms directive, emphasizing the importance of unwavering support for Israel.
Richard Goldberg, a former National Security Council official, cautioned that Iran and Hezbollah may escalate tensions due to the perceived space between the U.S. and Israel.
