In an effort to address concerns about the Israeli military's push into the southern Gaza city of Rafah, the United States has confirmed the temporary pause of a weapons shipment to Israel. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin testified before a congressional subcommittee, revealing that the Biden administration had halted "one shipment of high payload munitions." The move comes as the administration faces growing pressure to condition aid to Israel amidst the ongoing war in Gaza.

Austin emphasized the importance of protecting civilians during military operations, stating that Israel should not launch a major attack into Rafah without accounting for civilian safety. While a final determination on the shipment has yet to be made, Austin made it clear that the US remains committed to supporting Israel's right to self-defense.

The decision to pause the weapons shipment was met with disappointment from Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, who criticized the delay in obtaining necessary means to combat Hamas. Meanwhile, concerns about the use of these weapons have been voiced by student protesters and members of President Biden's own party, leading to calls for a reevaluation of US military aid to Israel.

The shipment in question included approximately 1,800 bombs weighing about 900kg (2,000lbs) each, as well as 1,700 bombs weighing 226kg (500lbs) each. Al Jazeera correspondent Kimberly Halkett reported that there have been significant concerns over how these weapons are being utilized, which contributed to the decision to pause the transfer.

US Senator Bernie Sanders welcomed the temporary halt in the weapons transfer, stating that it must be a first step. Sanders urged the US to leverage its influence to demand an immediate ceasefire, an end to the attacks on Rafah, and the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid to those in desperate need.

This move by the Biden administration comes after facing months of criticism for its unwavering support for Israel during the Gaza war, which has resulted in the deaths of over 34,000 Palestinians and a dire humanitarian crisis. While Washington has continued to provide military and diplomatic support, Israel's intensified bombardment of Rafah, resulting in the deaths of dozens, has drawn further attention to the situation.

Despite the concerns for the fate of the Palestinians in Rafah, the US Department of State sought to downplay recent Israeli army movements, stating that the military operation specifically targeted the Rafah gate and not civilian areas. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller reassured that the US remains committed to Israel's security, even as it opposes an operation in Rafah.

Human rights advocates have been urging the US to exert more pressure on Israel to end its war on Gaza, and President Biden is facing mounting protests, including on college campuses, over his stance. A recent poll conducted by Data for Progress and Zeteo revealed a growing disconnect between Biden and his Democratic Party base, with 56 percent of Democrats believing Israel is committing "genocide" in Gaza, and a majority of American voters, including 83 percent of Democrats, supporting a permanent ceasefire.

While the paused weapons shipment marks a significant step, the situation continues to evolve as the US contemplates its next move. As Biden navigates these challenges, his stance on Israel may prove to be a contentious topic as he campaigns for re-election in November.