President Joe Biden's threat to withhold specific types of weapons from Israel if it takes military action in Rafah is a grave mistake that jeopardizes not only U.S.-Israel relations but also stability in the Middle East. This policy emboldens Hamas, endangers the civilian population of Gaza, and potentially fuels further violence on U.S. campuses.
Within the Arab world, there is a current clear demand from Hamas that the group soften its position on negotiating a deal that will ease pressure on the residents of Gaza and allow for the beginning of Gaza's reconstruction. By signaling a potential reduction in military support for Israel, Biden has provided an insurance policy for Hamas leaders by protecting them and their fighters in Rafah, ensuring the continuation of Hamas governance in Gaza, and encouraging the reverse — the hardening of their demands in the negotiations. This move will likely prove counterproductive to U.S. interests across the region and ultimately extend the war, which has already created major political upheaval within the Democratic party.
Biden's position effectively corners Prime........