US Urges Israel to Adhere to International Law on Weapons, Reports Reuters

U.S. Briefs Israel on New National Security Memorandum

By Steve Holland

WASHINGTON – The United States has informed Israel about a new national security memorandum emphasizing the importance of adherence to international law for countries that receive U.S. military assistance. This update was communicated by the White House on Friday.

The memorandum, which serves as a policy statement from the administration, was shared with senior Cabinet officials responsible for national security on Thursday to ensure its objectives are fulfilled.

While the memo does not introduce new conditions regarding the use of U.S. military equipment, it does require the Biden administration to provide annual reports to Congress on the compliance of recipient countries with its stipulations.

Since the escalation of hostilities on October 7, Palestinian health officials report that nearly 28,000 individuals have lost their lives in an Israeli military campaign targeting Hamas, the governing body of the Gaza Strip. This military response was initiated following a Hamas attack, during which Israel states that 1,200 people were killed.

The United States provides $3.8 billion in military aid to Israel each year, maintaining its long-standing alliance. However, members of the leftist Democratic Party and Arab American advocacy groups have criticized the Biden administration for its unwavering support of Israel, arguing that it fosters a sense of impunity.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed to reporters that U.S. officials had briefed their Israeli counterparts about the memorandum.

"They reiterated their willingness to provide these types of assurances," she noted.

A U.S. official stated that other nations utilizing U.S. weaponry were also informed, although specific names were not disclosed.

Jean-Pierre explained that the memorandum resulted from discussions with lawmakers.

"There are no new standards in this memo. We are not imposing new standards for military aid," she clarified. "Instead, we are articulating existing standards in relation to international law, including the laws of armed conflict."

The memorandum includes a reminder for recipients of U.S. military assistance to "respect their obligations under international law and reduce the risk of civilian harm."

The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict operates within a complex international legal framework established post-World War Two, primarily focused on civilian protection. Even when nations claim they are acting in self-defense, international regulations concerning armed conflict apply universally to all parties involved.

President Biden has faced criticism from Arab American groups, urging him to advocate for a lasting ceasefire in Gaza. On Thursday, several administration officials met with Arab American leaders in Dearborn, Michigan, who have been vocal in their criticism of Biden’s stance.