Biden leverages US military aid to influence Israel amid Iran tensions, Gaza crisis

US president warns Israel of military aid cuts if Gaza conditions don't improve within a month

In his final months in office, US President Joe Biden has adopted a new strategy, using military assistance to Israel as both a reward and a pressure tool amid its ongoing tensions with Iran and Iran-backed groups. 

This approach aims to influence Israel’s decisions while addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, though experts are uncertain whether it will achieve the desired outcomes.

On Sunday, Biden’s administration announced it would send around 100 US soldiers to Israel, along with an advanced anti-missile system, a significant deployment following an October 1 missile strike by Iran. 

Simultaneously, Washington delivered a letter to Israel, warning it to take steps within a month to improve conditions in Gaza or face possible restrictions on US military aid.

US officials publicly state that this dual approach—strengthening Israel’s defence while pushing for humanitarian action—aligns with longstanding policies. However, privately, current and former officials acknowledge these moves increase US involvement in Israeli decision-making, particularly just weeks before the US presidential election.

The Biden administration faces pressure from liberal factions within the Democratic Party, who advocate using US leverage to rein in Israel. However, Israel has often resisted US advice, complicating Washington’s efforts.

Aaron David Miller, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, noted that the Biden administration’s carrot-and-stick approach demonstrates active thinking and strategy. Still, he cautioned that it is unlikely Washington would scale back military support if the conflict with Iran escalates.

White House spokesperson John Kirby stressed that the letter to Israel was not intended as a threat. Israeli officials confirmed they are reviewing the letter’s content and, in a potential response to US pressure, Israel announced that 50 aid trucks had been sent to northern Gaza.