Washington Considers Preventing Israel from Using American Weapons in Rafah

The United States is contemplating steps to prevent Israel from using American weapons in the anticipated attack on the city of Rafah in southern Gaza, according to the Washington Post. American writer David Ignatius noted in his column that President Joe Biden and other officials have "not made any decision regarding imposing conditions on the American weapons provided to Israel, but the fact that officials seem to be discussing this step reflects the administration's increasing concern about the crisis in Gaza." The Washington Post quoted former U.S. Ambassador to Israel Martin Indyk as saying, "If Israel launches an attack on Rafah without providing adequate protection for the displaced civilian population, this could lead to an unprecedented crisis in U.S.-Israeli relations, even concerning arms supplies." Ignatius stated in his article: "It seems that the United States has retreated from hopes for a diplomatic initiative linking Saudi relations with Israel to a path leading to a Palestinian state."