This modeling study examines how the Northern Hemisphere ice sheets interact with oceans during the last glacial period. Amplified melting beneath the ice shelves results in increased freshwater release, cooling the Northern Hemisphere and slowing  ocean circulation. Freshwater release and localized ocean cooling dampen ice discharges, showing complex feedback at the interface. This study emphasizes the need for additional modeling studies to clarify the role of the ocean in past abrupt events.