Tensions between Israel and the United States are rising as Israeli officials express deep dissatisfaction with the Biden administration’s decision to halt arms shipments destined for Israel.
The move exacerbated existing tensions, especially following recent progress in ceasefire and hostage negotiations with Hamas, NBC News reported.
An Israeli official told NBC News on condition of anonymity that there was great dissatisfaction within the Israeli government over the sudden halt in arms deliveries.
The frustration was compounded by Israel’s perception that it had been blindsided by Hamas’ unexpected announcement earlier this week indicating acceptance of a cease-fire proposal, which Israel claims it was not informed of in advance.
The Biden administration’s decision to suspend arms shipments reportedly comes amid concerns that Israel is on the verge of launching a full-scale attack on the southern Gaza city of Rafah. A senior U.S. administration official confirmed the suspension to The Associated Press, citing concerns about potential Israeli military action.
Joe Biden AP Photo/Evan Vucci
In addition to delays in arms shipments, Israeli officials claim the Biden administration was aware of amendments to the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement that Egypt and Qatar had proposed to Hamas.
However, they claim that the US did not notify Israel of these changes before Hamas officially announced acceptance of the ceasefire terms.
Israeli airstrike on Rafah, May 7, 2025. Abed Rahim Khatib / Flash90
These claims were refuted by senior US officials, who maintained that US diplomats had maintained active engagement with Israeli diplomats throughout the negotiation process.
Despite tensions, the United States remains committed to facilitating a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. U.S. officials believe Israel was negotiating in good faith and that the ceasefire proposal presented to Hamas in April was the most comprehensive yet.
