What triggers US threat to withhold weapons from Israel?

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US Threat to Withhold Weapons from Israel Triggered by Potential Rafah Invasion

The United States has publicly warned Israel that it will cease supplying certain weapons if Israeli forces undertake a major invasion of Rafah. This stance was articulated by President Joe Biden, who specified that weapons historically used for such operations would not be provided if an offensive into Rafah proceeds. This decision follows concerns over the civilian toll of Israel's ongoing military campaign in Gaza.
Potential Major Invasion of Rafah

President Biden explicitly stated that if Israel proceeds with a major invasion of Rafah, the US will withhold weapons that have been used in the past for similar operations. This warning signifies a potential shift in US policy, directly linking future arms provisions to Israel's military actions in the densely populated southern Gaza city. The threat comes as Israel has described its recent actions in Rafah, where over a million Palestinians have sought refuge, as a limited operation.
Civilian Casualties and Weapon Shipments

The US decision to pause a significant arms shipment, including 1,800 2,000-pound bombs and 1,700 500-pound bombs, is linked to concerns about civilian casualties. US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin cited apprehension regarding Rafah and opposition to a large-scale Israeli invasion without adequate safeguards for civilians. Austin acknowledged that US-supplied munitions have contributed to civilian deaths in Gaza during the seven-month offensive.
Context of the Gaza Conflict

Israel's extensive military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in the deaths of 34,789 Palestinians according to the Gaza Health Ministry, was initiated in response to Hamas's October 7 attack. This attack led to approximately 1,200 deaths and the abduction of about 250 individuals, with 133 still believed to be held captive. Despite this context, the US has affirmed its commitment to providing defensive weapons to Israel, such as those for the Iron Dome air defence system.

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What triggers US threat to withhold weapons from Israel?

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