The United States has issued a stern warning to Israel against invading the besieged city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip, calling it a potential mistake that would deepen the humanitarian crisis. President Joe Biden remains committed to defeating Hamas but has advised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against a major assault on Rafah. Israeli military actions have led to the deaths of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza, prompting concerns from the international community.
Biden has urged Netanyahu to send a team to Washington, DC, to address concerns about a possible invasion of Rafah. The city’s population has swelled to over 1.5 million people, with reports of a looming famine in the territory. Despite pressure from Western countries and UN experts, Israel has expressed its intention to invade Rafah, a key hub for humanitarian aid coming through the Egyptian border.
National Security Adviser Sullivan emphasized the need for a coherent humanitarian and political plan in Israel’s military operations. The US is backing a foreign funding bill in Congress that would provide additional assistance to Israel, despite calls for conditions to be placed on aid. Biden has stated that while he supports Israel’s defence, there are red lines that cannot be crossed in terms of civilian casualties.
Netanyahu and Biden have a strained relationship, with Senator Chuck Schumer calling for new elections in Israel to facilitate peace talks. Despite criticisms, Biden has refrained from using US aid as leverage to pressure Israel into ending its abuses against Palestinians. The US administration continues to support Israel’s security but emphasizes the need for a clear strategic endgame in military operations against Hamas.
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