Amidst escalating tensions between the Biden administration and Israeli leaders regarding the conflict in Gaza, there is speculation about whether U.S. officials will employ stronger measures as Israel continues to disregard their appeals.
Critics argue that the U.S. could use leverage to pressure Israel into allowing more humanitarian aid into Gaza, reducing its military activities, or refraining from invading the city of Rafah where many civilians have sought refuge.
Following terrorist attacks by Hamas on October 7, resulting in significant casualties, Israel’s subsequent strikes have led to a high number of Palestinian casualties. President Biden has attempted to influence Prime Minister Netanyahu privately while publicly expressing support for Israel. However, tensions persist.
Israeli officials are set to meet with their U.S. counterparts in Washington to discuss differing views on the potential invasion of Rafah. Former American officials are increasingly advocating for Biden to use leverage to steer Israel away from what they view as a destructive conflict.
The Biden administration has highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, including in a draft resolution presented to the United Nations Security Council that called for an immediate cease-fire if certain conditions were met. However, the resolution was vetoed by Russia and China, with many nations advocating for an unconditional cease-fire.
Past administrations have utilized various forms of leverage, including withholding aid or threatening to do so, to influence Israeli actions. The current relationship presents an opportunity for the U.S. to exert pressure.
U.S. leverage with Israel primarily involves weapons aid, with the U.S. being a major military supplier. Recent efforts to expedite arms orders to Israel reflect the urgency of the situation.
Weapons shipments
The U.S. government has accelerated arms deliveries to Israel, including bombs and artillery shells. Approving additional arms requests could be a point of contention in upcoming meetings between Israeli and U.S. officials.
If Biden decides to slow down or halt arms transfers, it could send a strong message to Israel. The administration has outlined compliance standards for countries receiving U.S. weapons, emphasizing adherence to international humanitarian law.
Advocates of a tougher approach suggest invoking the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to address Israel’s actions in Gaza. This could force Israel to reconsider its military campaign.
Senator Reed emphasized the importance of maintaining military assistance to Israel without imposing conditions, citing the strong alliance between the two countries.
The diplomatic shield
The U.S. has shielded Israel from international condemnations at the U.N., using its veto power to block resolutions calling for an immediate cease-fire.
The U.S. has been critical of the genocide case against Israel in the International Court of Justice, highlighting the complexities of the situation.
Sanctions
While refraining from imposing sanctions on Israeli officials, the Biden administration may consider such measures in the future to address policies in the West Bank.
Recent actions by the State Department regarding Israeli settlements and sanctions on individuals demonstrate a shift in approach. Sanctions could potentially impact Israeli officials due to their ties to the U.S.
Farnaz Fassihi contributed reporting from the U.N.
