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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that his country will “stand alone” if necessary in its ongoing conflict with Hamas. This comes amidst a deepening rift with the United States over military support. 

Netanyahu’s statement was a direct response to President Joe Biden’s announcement that the US would withhold offensive weapons intended for Israel’s planned assault on Rafah, Gaza, which Israel claims as Hamas’ last stronghold.

Netanyahu said, “If we have to stand alone, we will stand alone. If we need to, we will fight with our fingernails. But we have much more than fingernails.” This comes as the Israeli military has already begun operations on the outskirts of Rafah and taken control of key positions, including a critical border crossing. Despite the apparent lack of new arms from the US, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, an Israeli army spokesman, assured that Israel possesses sufficient munitions for its current operations.

Amidst this, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. Recent disruptions caused by the conflict have severely hindered the delivery of aid. The ongoing battle has resulted in widespread food shortages, with the UN reporting severe famine conditions in northern Gaza. The situation is poised to worsen should Israel proceed with a full-scale invasion of Rafah, a critical juncture for humanitarian aid distribution in the region.

In response to these challenges, Biden has reiterated the US commitment both to Israel’s security and humanitarian efforts, including the launch of an aid ship from Cyprus to Gaza.