In a move that has raised eyebrows, the Biden administration has decided to halt a shipment of US-made ammunition to Israel, according to a source familiar with the matter. The reason behind this decision remains undisclosed at this time.

However, it is important to note that this pause does not seem to be connected to a potential Israeli operation in Rafah and will not affect other shipments in the future, the source clarified. When questioned about the withheld shipment, a spokesperson from the National Security Council highlighted the ongoing security assistance provided to Israel.

The spokesperson stated, "The United States has displayed unwavering support to Israel, having allocated billions of dollars in security assistance since the October 7 attacks. We have also taken the lead in forming an unprecedented coalition to safeguard Israel against Iranian threats. Rest assured, we will continue to prioritize Israel's defense against the various challenges it faces."

First reported by Axios, this pause in ammunition shipment does not indicate any change in the US policy towards Israel. Last month, President Biden signed a foreign aid bill that included a staggering $26 billion in aid for the Israel-Hamas conflict. This aid package includes $15 billion in military assistance for Israel, $9 billion in humanitarian aid for Gaza, and $2.4 billion for regional US military operations.

Despite this, US officials remain concerned about a possible Israeli military operation in Rafah, a city where over a million Palestinians are currently seeking refuge. The United States is actively involved in intense negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

Over the weekend, negotiations between Israel and Hamas in Cairo showed some signs of progress, offering a glimmer of hope for a potential resolution. However, both sides continued to exchange blame for the impasse, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressing disapproval of Hamas' demand for Israel to withdraw from Gaza.

As part of the diplomatic efforts, CIA Director Bill Burns, who was present at the ceasefire negotiations in Cairo, has extended his stay in Doha, Qatar. Burns has been acting as a key mediator in talks between Israel, Hamas, Egypt, and Qatar regarding the release of hostages held in Gaza, alongside a temporary ceasefire.

It remains uncertain why Burns' stay was prolonged or if any significant developments occurred during his time in Doha. Sources emphasize that the negotiations concerning a Gaza ceasefire remain fluid and dynamic.

While the US is pressuring Hamas to accept the most recent proposal, which reportedly involves the release of up to 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for a halt in hostilities, efforts are also being made to prevent Israel from launching a ground offensive in Rafah.

Regardless of a potential ceasefire agreement, Prime Minister Netanyahu has asserted that Israel reserves the right to enter Rafah in order to eliminate the threat posed by Hamas.

The coming days are crucial as negotiators strive to find a middle ground that would bring an end to the devastating violence in the region. International observers are closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a breakthrough in the talks and a return to peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.