The Biden administration is facing mounting pressure to restrict or halt arms shipments to Israel following its military campaign in Gaza. The $38 billion military agreement sealed by the Obama administration in 2016 has become a flashpoint for the current administration, with vocal lawmakers and activists demanding action.
President Biden has criticized Israel’s military campaign but has resisted placing limits on U.S. military aid. The relationship between the United States and Israel has been longstanding, with Israel relying on the U.S. for critical equipment like fighter jets, helicopters, and air defense missiles.
Despite calls to restrict arms shipments, the Biden administration has continued to authorize deliveries to Israel, citing the need to maintain Israel’s deterrence against threats from Hezbollah, Iran, and other actors in the region. However, there are growing concerns about the use of U.S. weapons in the conflict.
The State Department’s process for arms delivery to Israel is opaque, with some orders falling below the threshold for congressional review. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has bypassed congressional oversight on several occasions to push through arms orders for Israel.
Critics argue that the U.S. needs to use its leverage to shape Israel’s behavior and ensure compliance with international law. The Biden administration has faced internal dissent over the arms transfers, with some officials raising concerns about Israel’s commitment to humanitarian law.
As pressure mounts on the Biden administration to take action, the future of U.S. arms shipments to Israel remains uncertain. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has put a spotlight on the complex relationship between the two countries and the implications of continued military support.
