President Biden stated, “If they go into Rafah, I’m not supplying the weapons.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to fight alone and vigorously if necessary after President Biden threatened to cease supplying Israeli forces with specific weapons if they targeted densely populated areas in Rafah. Netanyahu’s objective in Israel’s military campaign in Gaza is to eradicate the Hamas terrorist group, with Rafah being a major stronghold. However, President Biden expressed concerns about potential harm to Gazan civilians due to a large-scale military operation in Rafah. Defense Secretary Austin emphasized the importance of precision weapons in a densely built-up environment over larger bombs that could cause collateral damage.
In response to Biden’s remarks, Netanyahu affirmed his government’s commitment to its war efforts, stating they would fight tooth and nail if necessary. Despite disagreements over operations in Rafah, Israel Defense Forces spokesman Rear Adml. Daniel Hagari reassured that they have the necessary weapons and equipment for their plans in Rafah. He also acknowledged the unprecedented support from the US in the ongoing conflict, particularly in intercepting missiles and drones launched by Iran at Israel.
While some view the pause in certain weapons deliveries as a necessary precaution, others, like the Jewish Policy Forum, believe it sends conflicting messages regarding US support for Israel. The Biden administration aims to balance military support for Israel with humanitarian aid in Gaza and ceasefire negotiations. The Netanyahu government has offered a temporary ceasefire in exchange for the return of hostages taken by Hamas, but Hamas seeks a more permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal without meeting Netanyahu’s goal of eliminating them entirely. Please provide a new version of the text for me to rewrite.
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