In late 2024, President Joe Biden reviewed new U.S. intelligence that raised alarms about possible Israeli war crimes in Gaza, including risks of American legal liability. Officials debated cutting support but chose to maintain aid, leaving the issue for the incoming Trump administration.
This development came amid ongoing conflict in Gaza, where Israel faced global scrutiny over its military actions. The intelligence highlighted Israeli officials’ own doubts about legal compliance, sparking urgent talks in Washington.
Intelligence Sparks Urgent White House Talks
New reports in late 2024 revealed U.S. intelligence on Israeli military lawyers expressing concerns over evidence of war crimes in Gaza. This information shocked American officials and led to high level meetings involving Biden and his top aides.
The data pointed to Israel’s handling of attacks and aid restrictions, potentially violating international law. Former officials described the material as the most damning yet, showing Israel’s awareness of possible illegal acts.
Biden personally joined discussions on how to respond. Options included limiting intelligence sharing with Israel to reduce U.S. involvement. Yet, the administration decided against major changes, citing complex policy ties.
A key figure pushed back against shifts in support, arguing for continued alliance. This choice reflected broader U.S. strategy in the Middle East, balancing security needs with legal risks.
Blinken Raises Ethnic Cleansing Fears
Secretary of State Antony Blinken privately questioned if Israel’s actions in Gaza amounted to ethnic cleansing, a serious charge under international law. This marked a shift from public statements that defended Israel’s right to self defense.
Former State Department insiders noted Blinken’s concerns during internal briefings. He highlighted forced displacements and aid blocks, echoing warnings from the United Nations and Jordan.
Ethnic cleansing involves removing populations through violence or coercion. In Gaza, reports of widespread destruction and civilian hardships fueled these fears.
Blinken’s words added weight to global criticism. Groups like Human Rights Watch had already accused Israel of such acts, urging accountability.
The administration grappled with these issues as the war dragged on, with over 40,000 Palestinian deaths reported by health officials in Gaza by late 2024.
Legal Risks for U.S. Officials
The intelligence raised fears that U.S. leaders could face legal trouble for aiding Israel. Laws like the Foreign Assistance Act ban weapons to countries blocking humanitarian aid.
Officials worried about personal liability if they ignored the warnings. This prompted legal reviews within the government.
Despite the concerns, arms supplies continued. Biden’s team concluded that U.S. gathered intel did not directly confirm violations, allowing support to persist.
Critics argued this stance ignored mounting evidence. Lawmakers and experts repeatedly flagged breaches, but policy remained unchanged.
Broader Context of the Gaza Conflict
The Gaza war began after Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023, killing about 1,200 people and taking hostages. Israel’s response aimed to dismantle Hamas but drew accusations of excessive force.
By 2025, the conflict had displaced nearly 2 million Palestinians and caused a humanitarian crisis. Aid groups reported famine risks in northern Gaza.
International bodies, including the International Criminal Court, investigated potential war crimes on both sides. A nonprofit even sought probes into Biden’s role.
Public opinion shifted, with protests in the U.S. demanding policy changes. Biden’s approach complicated his legacy and influenced the 2024 election.
Here is a timeline of key events:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 2023 | Hamas attacks Israel, sparking war |
| January 2024 | Far right Israeli ministers spark ethnic cleansing fears |
| October 2024 | UN warns of atrocity crimes in Gaza |
| Late 2024 | U.S. intel on Israeli war crimes emerges |
| February 2025 | Trump signals intent to escalate in Gaza |
| June 2025 | Former Biden official admits likely war crimes |
Reactions and Global Fallout
World leaders reacted strongly to the revelations. Jordan’s foreign minister accused Israel of ethnic cleansing during a joint appearance with Blinken.
The United Nations highlighted risks of crimes against humanity in northern Gaza. Reports from groups like Amnesty International detailed civilian suffering.
In the U.S., dissent grew within the government. Some officials pushed for tougher stances, but hawks prevailed.
Former aides later criticized the inaction, saying it stained America’s moral standing. One ex official called it a failure to uphold human rights.
What Lies Ahead Under Trump
With Trump taking office in 2025, the issue now falls to his team. Early statements suggest a harder line, including possible U.S. takeover of Gaza and population moves.
This could escalate tensions and draw the U.S. deeper into the conflict. Experts warn of increased instability in the region.
Trump’s past policies, like the Muslim ban, contrast with Biden’s approach. Observers watch for shifts in aid and diplomacy.
The handover leaves unresolved questions about accountability. As the war continues, calls for peace grow louder.
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