In the midst of the ongoing offensive by Israel against Hamas in Gaza, the Biden administration has unequivocally stated that it will not attach any conditions to the annual $3.8 billion military aid provided to Israel, despite mounting pressure from some Democrats.
President Joe Biden, a longstanding supporter of Israel, briefly entertained the idea of conditioning future aid during a recent press interaction. However, senior U.S. officials swiftly dismissed any change in policy. An anonymous official clarified, “It’s not something we’re currently pursuing.”
Biden’s remark was seen by some insiders as an expression of frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whom Biden reportedly criticized privately for his hardline stance and perceived lack of commitment to a two-state solution.
The administration’s stance places Biden at odds with certain members of his own party. Progressive Democrats, led by Senator Bernie Sanders, proposed legislation to block a $735 million arms sale to Israel, citing concerns over the recent escalation of violence that resulted in casualties on both sides.
Senator Chris Murphy emphasized, “We regularly condition our aid to allies based upon compliance with U.S. law and international law.”
Even some of Biden’s allies in Congress suggested using existing regulations to restrict aid to Israel if it violates the terms of the 2016 Memorandum of Understanding.
However, the Biden administration remains resolute in its support for Israel’s right to defend itself against what it considers a terrorist organization—Hamas. The administration used diplomatic channels to broker a temporary pause in the conflict aimed at securing the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
During this pause, the U.S. is urging Israel to be more targeted in its operations, particularly in the south where civilians have sought refuge. The administration is also addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, pledging $360 million in aid to Palestinians and appointing a special envoy to revive peace efforts.
The administration’s overarching goal is to “create the conditions for a more durable and lasting calm” between Israel and Hamas, aiming to “advance the prospects of a two-state solution” that ensures security and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians.
