Republicans push Biden administration on weapons pause

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Republicans and the Israeli government condemned President Biden’s decision to pause some weapons shipments to Israel if it continues with its plans to invade Rafah.

The U.S. says Israel’s recent tactics have led to a loss of innocent civilian lives but failed to eliminate Hamas leaders.

The Biden administration delivered harsh criticism of Israel’s latest operations in Gaza.

“They have failed to meet their obligations of meeting humanitarian law,” State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel.

U.S. officials say Israel has not shown a plan to protect civilians or a plan for what happens after the war against Hamas.

“There is a moral and strategic imperative to take every possible step to minimize civilian casualties,” said Patel.

This comes after the president paused a weapons shipment to the U.S. ally and threatened to halt more if Israel invades Rafah as planned.

“It’s something we will judge based on what we see, and the president will then make his determination,” said National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan.

Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders says Israel should be punished.

“It has broken American law, and, in my view, Israel should not be receiving another nickel in U.S. military aid,” said Sanders.

However, South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham disagrees with this step taken by the president.

“This idea of holding weapons to Israel is rewarding the tactics of Hamas to put civilians at risk,” said Graham.

Officials say the U.S.  is still committed to helping Israel find a favorable solution.

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