President Biden recently called Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a 30-minute conversation, leveraging U.S. aid to influence Israel’s conduct regarding the war against Hamas, focusing on addressing civilian casualties and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The White House expressed the need for specific steps from Israel to address these concerns, with the threat that future U.S. support would be determined by Israel’s actions. This marks a significant shift in the Biden administration’s approach to the conflict.
Following the call, Israel agreed to permit more food and supplies into Gaza, showing a willingness to meet some of Biden’s demands. The efforts came in response to Biden’s growing frustration over the killing of seven aid workers by Israeli forces and his repeated calls for a negotiated cease-fire. While Israel’s commitments are seen as positive steps, there were no direct statements regarding potential consequences if the demands were not fully met.
The Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken emphasized the need for increased delivery of humanitarian supplies to Gaza, highlighting the inadequate current efforts despite Israel’s steps to allow assistance. If Israel fails to make necessary changes, the Biden administration may consider changes in policy or withholding U.S. arms supplies. The administration’s stance reflects a growing recognition in some Democratic circles that more control over arms shipments to Israel may be necessary.
President Biden’s shift in policy comes amid criticism from various quarters, including within his own party and from former colleagues in the Obama administration. Some have called for substantive consequences to hold Israel accountable for its actions, indicating a broader sentiment that the U.S. should use its influence to stop further civilian harm. The killing of the aid workers by Israeli military forces has intensified calls for action.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by the war between Israel and Hamas, has brought to the forefront concerns about civilian casualties and the need for a negotiated cease-fire. The Biden administration’s willingness to link future support for Israel to its conduct reflects a new approach in U.S. foreign policy towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel’s response to Biden’s demands will likely shape the direction of future relations between the two allies.
As tensions persist in the region, the fate of ongoing negotiations for a cease-fire and the release of hostages taken by Hamas remains uncertain. The Biden administration is closely monitoring Israel’s actions and has hinted at potential consequences if Israel fails to meet the demands set forth by the White House. The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to be a key focus, with efforts to increase the flow of aid and reduce civilian harm taking center stage in the conflict resolution efforts.
