Rep. Takano’s Statement on President Biden’s Decision to Halt Arms to Israel if Rafah is Invaded
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Mark Takano (CA-39) released the following statement on President Biden’s decision to withhold offensive arms shipments to Israel if it launched a full-scale ground invasion of Rafah:
I applaud President Biden’s decision to protect civilians and hostages by withholding weapons from the Netanyahu-led Israeli government if they follow through with a full ground invasion of Rafah.
With 34,000 Gazans dead, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is already dire. An IDF military operation in a city that houses more than 1 million civilians and where the remaining hostages are likely held would make it even worse.
Netanyahu has consistently shown in words and actions that he will put his personal political interest above the desperate need of both Israelis and Palestinians for a lasting peace. This is why I voted against sending offensive military aid to his government in the recent foreign aid package and why the President’s strong leadership is so important.
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