The Biden administration is exploring the possibility of using weaponry sales as leverage to encourage Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to scale back its military assault in the Gaza Strip, according to sources familiar with the discussions.
Weaponry Sales as Leverage
At the behest of the White House, the Pentagon is assessing Israel’s requests for weaponry that could be utilized as leverage. While no decisions have been made, Israeli officials are continuing to request additional weapons, including large aerial bombs, ammunition, and air defenses. In order to spur action from Israel, such as opening humanitarian corridors to assist Palestinian civilians, the United States is considering a slowdown or pause in the delivery of certain weapons.
Among the weaponry being considered as leverage are 155mm artillery rounds and Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs), which are guidance kits that transform regular bombs into precision-guided munitions. However, air defenses and systems that protect Israeli civilians and infrastructure from attack are unlikely to be affected.
Incentives for Change
In addition to potentially slowing deliveries, the Biden administration has also discussed providing more of the requested weapons to Israel as an incentive to encourage desired actions. This represents a shift in approach from mere rhetoric to tangible policy changes aimed at influencing Israeli tactics in Gaza.
President Biden and his national security team have attempted to convince Netanyahu and other Israeli officials to change tactics and minimize civilian casualties, but have been met with resistance. The frustration is particularly evident regarding Israel’s lack of attention to minimizing harm to Palestinian civilians and the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Khan Younis.
A Shift in Approach
President Biden has stated his commitment to influencing Israeli military tactics in Gaza, but the administration acknowledges that more needs to be done. While they believe they have achieved some success, there is an understanding that Israeli officials have not gone as far as desired. White House officials emphasize the importance of Israel’s responsibility to defend itself against Hamas while protecting civilian lives and complying with international humanitarian law.
Overall, the Biden administration is seeking to exert pressure on Israel through a calculated approach that includes reviewing weaponry deliveries and offering incentives for a change in tactics. By leveraging this strategy, the United States aims to encourage Israel to take greater steps in minimizing civilian casualties and improving the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.