Israeli military says it has weapons it needs for Rafah ground operation Boston 25 News [Video]

JERUSALEM — (AP) — Israel’s military spokesman says the army has the weapons it needs to press ahead with its offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari was asked at a news conference whether the army can conduct the operation without U.S. arms.

“The army has armaments for the missions it plans, and for the missions in Rafah too — we have what we need,” Hagari said.

Hagari spoke after U.S. President Joe Biden said he would not supply offensive weapons that Israel could use to launch an all-out assault on Rafah — the last major Hamas stronghold in Gaza — over concerns for the civilians there.

Hagari said relations with the U.S. remain close, and that disagreements should be resolved behind closed doors.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below.

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