In a move that has sparked controversy and debate, President Joe Biden has decided to withhold the shipment of 3,500 bombs to Israel, citing concerns over the planned major invasion of Rafah and the potential risk to Palestinian civilians seeking refuge in the area. While congressional Republicans have heavily criticized Biden's decision, citing it as unprecedented, experts argue that previous presidents, including Republican ones, have taken similar steps to send a clear message to Israel and other allies.

Foreign policy expert Michael Sullivan, an adjunct professor at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service, emphasized that this decision is part of security cooperation and within the president's right to use every available tool in his toolbox. Sullivan noted that Republican presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush both halted key aid to Israel during their terms over concerns about Israeli actions.

President Reagan, in the summer of 1981, held back the delivery of U.S. fighter jets to Israel for two months after it bombed a nuclear reactor in Iraq. Additionally, in July 1982, he halted a shipment of cluster shells over concerns about Israel's use of these weapons during its invasion of Lebanon. Similarly, in March 1992, President Bush delayed a $10 billion loan to Israel over concerns about Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

Sullivan highlighted that during that time, there was not as much political criticism domestically or internationally since the conflict in the Middle East was not at the forefront of foreign policy, unlike the present situation. He further explained that various factors, such as increased political polarization in the United States, have contributed to the heightened scrutiny faced by President Biden.

The Biden administration informed Israel last week about the decision to withhold the bomb shipment, expressing concerns about the planned offensive into Rafah and the potential threat it posed to Palestinian civilians. President Biden, in an interview with CNN, stated that American weapons had been used to kill civilians in Israel's war on Hamas in Gaza, and he emphasized his commitment to the safety of the Jewish people, the security of Israel, and its right to exist as an independent Jewish state.

The president and other White House officials have reiterated their support for Israel, but this decision has drawn criticism from several Senate Republicans, including Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and Lindsey Graham. Graham argued that Israel is fighting a just war and warned against rewarding Hamas' behavior, attributing the high number of Palestinian casualties to Hamas' use of hospitals for command centers.

Contrary to the objections raised by Republicans, Sullivan emphasized that Biden's decision aligns with previous administrations' actions regarding U.S.-Israel policy and underscores the authority of the president in matters of foreign relations. He suggested that the criticism may stem from political motivations, with politicians seeking advantages in an election year.

While some Republicans accused Biden of bowing to pressure from pro-Palestinian protesters and divestment movements, Sullivan stated that the decision was more likely driven by escalating concerns specifically related to the situation in Rafah. He noted that a cease-fire was approaching, and repeated appeals were made to Israel to avoid entering Rafah due to the humanitarian crisis.

It is important to note that Biden's decision does not end military aid to Israel, and the nation still possesses substantial firepower for self-defense or any future actions in Rafah. The timeline for the hold on the shipment remains uncertain, with White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stating that it will depend on Israel's actions and planning in Rafah.

As this decision continues to generate attention and controversy, it underscores the complexities of U.S.-Israel relations and the challenges faced by President Biden in navigating this delicate situation.