What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
Weekend Recap: May 4-5, 2024
The Biden administration was reported to have put a hold on a shipment of U.S.-made ammunition to Israel, marking a significant move since it's the first halt of a weapons shipment to the Israeli military since the Oct. 7 attack. This decision has raised concerns within the Israeli government, prompting officials to seek clarity on the reasons behind the U.S.'s action. This development coincides with growing criticism President Biden faces domestically from those opposed to U.S. support for Israel.
In response to U.S. concerns about the use of its weapons, Israel had previously assured that its actions in Gaza were in compliance with international law. However, the current pause in arms shipments relates specifically to U.S. apprehensions about a potential Israeli military operation in Rafah, Gaza. Here, over a million displaced Palestinians have taken shelter, and the U.S. fears a significant humanitarian impact if an invasion occurs. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expressed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that such an operation would lead to U.S. opposition and negatively affect U.S.-Israel relations.
Behind the scenes, international efforts are ongoing to mediate a ceasefire and a hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, with significant involvement from the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar. Despite these efforts, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant indicated that military operations in Gaza might soon escalate due to signs that Hamas is not moving towards an agreement on releasing hostages.
The White House hosted a meeting involving state leaders, workforce policy experts, unions, federal agencies, and other stakeholders to discuss expanding investments in education and training for good jobs in high-demand industries. This meeting is part of President Biden's Investing in America agenda, which includes several major legislative acts to boost the need for skilled labor in sectors like clean energy and biotechnology.
During the meeting, senior administration officials, including Neera Tanden and Mala Adiga, heard from representatives from twelve states on their strategies for reducing costs and improving job training through integrated education and workforce systems. They discussed state-led initiatives such as free community college in Michigan and workforce development funded by federal highway money in Maryland. The administration encouraged states to allocate at least 0.5% of their federal highway formula funds to enhance and diversify their construction workforces, using Maryland and Pennsylvania as models.
The gathering was part of ongoing efforts to align educational opportunities with market demands and ensure the workforce is equipped for emerging sectors. It stressed the importance of apprenticeships and supportive services like child care and transportation for workers.
President Biden, along with First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, extended warm wishes to Orthodox Christian communities worldwide on the occasion of Easter. The Bidens expressed their solidarity with Orthodox Christians in gratitude and commitment to aiding the needy. They also acknowledged the hardships faced by those suffering from war and persecution, pledging to pray and strive for peace and justice for all. The message concluded with a blessing for protection and guidance during Easter and throughout the coming year.
I’m glad for the hold on the shipment of ammo to Israel in light of the fact Netanyahu has insisted his right to attack a city full of displaced, starving refugees. Millions of lives hang in the balance here and it’s time for the world to remind Netanyahu that it was his people who experienced what has been referred to as an event in history that should never be repeated. #NeverAgain
So much at stake with arms shipments. Absolutely 💯 % agree with stopping them especially in light of Bibi’s recent comments as to going into Rafah . The man is a warmonger. Will he see justice from the ICC? I believe he wants the war to continue indefinitely to keep himself in power and out of prison.