In a significant development, President Joe Biden has issued a stern warning to Israel, stating that the United States will suspend further arms shipments to the country if it proceeds with a major ground operation in the Gaza city of Rafah. The UK-based BBC reported on Thursday (May 9) that Biden's remarks came during an interview with CNN.

Biden emphasized that if Israeli forces advance into Rafah, the US will cease providing weapons historically used in such operations. He underscored that Washington will not extend support if Israel escalates its military actions into populated areas.

The President acknowledged the use of US-supplied weapons in Gaza, expressing concerns over civilian casualties. However, he noted that thus far, Israeli forces have refrained from crossing a red line into Rafah's urban areas.

Despite repeated warnings from the US, Netanyahu's administration has signaled intentions to carry out a replacement operation in Rafah. In response, the Pentagon has already taken action by suspending shipments of two types of bombs to Israel.

The escalating tensions underscore the delicate balance in the US-Israel relationship, with Biden's warning signaling a potential shift in US policy towards Israeli military actions in the Gaza Strip. International observers are closely monitoring the situation as diplomatic efforts continue to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict.