During an interview with CNN on Wednesday, May 8, Joe Biden made a statement regarding the supply of American ammunition to Israel. Biden mentioned that if a large-scale operation begins in Rafah, the United States will stop providing ammunition to Israel. This decision was made after acknowledging that the weapons and ammunition supplied to Israel are being used to kill civilians in Gaza.
In the interview, President Biden expressed concern over the use of bombs and other weapons causing civilian casualties in populated areas. He specifically mentioned the suspension of the transfer of powerful air bombs to Israel and added that the United States will also halt the supply of artillery shells if a large-scale operation is initiated in Rafah.
While Biden emphasized that defensive weapons, including shells for the Iron Dome, will continue to be provided to Israel, he made it clear that supplying weapons historically used for offensive operations targeting civilian areas would be reassessed if the situation escalates. This decision reflects a shift in the United States’ stance on the use of military aid in conflict zones.