In a move to scrutinize the Biden administration's decision regarding offensive aid to Israel, the House Oversight Committee has initiated an investigation. Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., expressed concerns over the decision-making process and the timing of the announcement. He also requested a congressional briefing and related documents from the White House National Security Council.

The investigation was prompted by President Biden's declaration on May 9, 2024, that the United States would not supply offensive weapons to Israel if it proceeded with a ground invasion of the southern Gaza city of Rafah, the last major Hamas stronghold in Gaza. Comer, along with other Republicans on the Oversight Committee, signed a letter expressing alarm about the administration's handling of taxpayer-funded assistance to Israel.

Comer further highlighted in the letter that the National Security Council deliberately kept the decision hidden from the public for several days, partly to avoid overshadowing the President's speech in support of Israel on Holocaust Remembrance Day. The Committee seeks clarification and information about the decision, including any legal justifications for withholding aid while Israel fights against Hamas terrorists with Israeli and American hostages at stake.

The ultimatum from President Biden came during a CNN interview on Wednesday night when Israel was preparing for a potential ground invasion of Rafah. Biden assured continued U.S. support for Israel's defensive systems, such as the Iron Dome. However, he stated that offensive weapons historically used by Israel to handle issues in Rafah would not be supplied if they proceed with the invasion.

The Committee expressed deep concern about the decision to withhold essential military aid and its intentional concealment from the public for political purposes. They noted that the Biden administration had promised transparency and truth in government but seemed to prioritize public perception over national security and diplomacy.

The White House has been contacted for comment, and White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby conveyed to reporters that Israel had previous knowledge of the administration's warning before the CNN interview. Kirby emphasized that Israel has not yet launched a full invasion of Rafah's population centers.

It is worth noting that Biden had strongly opposed cutting off military aid to Israel in a 2019 PBS interview, stating that it would be preposterous to do so, considering Israel being the only true ally in the region.

In addition to this investigation, the House Oversight Committee has already been looking into the Biden administration's funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), following accusations of links between UNRWA staff members and the October 7, 2023, Hamas terror attack in southern Israel.

The House Oversight Committee expects a prompt response from the White House National Security Council, with a deadline of May 24, to provide the requested documents and information for further examination.