The Biden administration has recently halted a shipment of U.S.-manufactured ammunition to Israel for the first time since the deadly Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack, as reported by Israeli officials. The sudden stoppage of the weapons shipment has left Israeli government officials puzzled about the reasons behind this decision.
In response to the report, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council emphasized the U.S.'s longstanding support for Israel's defense efforts following the Oct. 7 attack. The United States has provided substantial security assistance to Israel, including a significant emergency appropriation, and has led a coalition to protect Israel from Iranian threats.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed intentions to conduct a military operation in Rafah, a city in southern Gaza where Hamas maintains its last stronghold. Despite warnings from President Biden and other Western leaders about potential civilian casualties and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis, Netanyahu remains steadfast in his resolve.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza originated from the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, resulting in numerous casualties and hostages. President Biden's support for Israel has faced criticism from segments of the American population, leading to protests on college campuses nationwide.