Despite President Joe Biden’s warning that the US will halt some weapons supplies to Israel if it attacks Rafah, Prime Minister Netanyahu remains resolute. In an interview with Dr. Phil, Netanyahu expressed his long-standing relationship with Biden and his hope to navigate their disagreements.
Israel’s military has pledged to eradicate Hamas from the Gaza region after the terrorist group’s deadly attack on October 7. Netanyahu emphasized the mission to destroy Hamas’ remaining battalions, despite strong opposition. He warned that Hamas’ survival in Rafah would lead to further bloodshed and that Israel would achieve victory by eliminating them.
The US initially supported Israel by providing weapons. However, after Israeli attacks on US and UN aid workers, Washington urged a halt to the violence. Biden threatened to withhold offensive weapons if Israel launched a ground invasion of Rafah, citing the potential loss of civilian life.
In an April 4 phone call, Biden gave Netanyahu an ultimatum to protect civilians and aid workers or face a shift in US policy. Last week, the US withheld a shipment of heavy bombs due to concerns over Israel’s ongoing offensive in Rafah.
