Amid President Biden's ultimatum to withhold offensive weapons from Israel in the event of an invasion of Rafah, rocket attacks have intensified, posing a grave threat to the region's stability. On Friday and Saturday, Hamas launched a series of rockets from Rafah, targeting the Israeli cities of Beersheva and Kiryat Shmona. The violence has resulted in casualties on both sides, with four Israeli soldiers losing their lives within the Gaza Strip.

The escalating attacks have raised concerns about the implications of strained relations between the United States and Israel. Jonathan Conricus, a former Israeli Defense Forces combat commander, argued that tensions between these two allies embolden Israel's enemies and hamper negotiation efforts. Conricus further emphasized that the perception of the U.S.'s wavering support may strain its partnerships in the Middle East.

Former U.S. Ambassador to Israel under the Trump administration, David Friedman, criticized Biden's policy shift, suggesting that it has given Hamas a sense of impunity. Many Israelis are viewing the pause in weapons deliveries as a betrayal of Biden's assurance of unwavering support for their nation's security.

However, the White House's National Security Communications Adviser, John Kirby, refuted claims of abandoning Israel, highlighting previous instances of U.S. support, including military assistance against missile and drone threats from Iran. Kirby asserted that concerns about a potential military operation in Rafah led to the decision to withhold certain types of military assistance.

The blockage of offensive weapons to Israel has drawn criticism from the Jewish Institute for National Security of America (JINSA), which published a letter signed by retired U.S. military leaders. The letter emphasized the importance of clear and unwavering support for Israel in the face of escalating anti-Semitism and threats from Iran and its proxies.

The situation has sparked concerns that Iran and Hezbollah, Israel's adversaries, may further escalate the violence. Richard Goldberg, a former National Security Council official, warned that the perception of weakness and desperation in both the U.S. and Israel could embolden shared enemies.

As the rocket attacks persist, it remains to be seen how the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Israel will impact the region's security and stability. The White House, as well as Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Prime Minister's Office, have not yet responded to press queries regarding the situation.