President Biden has successfully persuaded Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, to consider alternatives to a planned invasion of Rafah, a city that has become a refuge for half of Gaza’s population. In a phone call on Monday, Biden expressed concerns about the potential disastrous consequences of a ground operation in Rafah and urged Netanyahu to explore other options for defeating Hamas.
National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan emphasized that a major ground operation in Rafah would lead to more civilian deaths, worsen the humanitarian crisis, deepen anarchy in Gaza, and isolate Israel internationally. As a result, Netanyahu agreed to send a team of officials to Washington to discuss alternative approaches that would target key Hamas elements in Rafah without a major ground invasion.
Biden, who has been critical of Israel’s conduct in the conflict, expressed alarm at the potential destruction that could occur in Rafah, where over a million people have sought refuge. He highlighted the importance of safely moving civilians out of harm’s way and providing essential services like food, shelter, and sanitation.
Netanyahu, in a statement on social media, reiterated Israel’s commitment to achieving its goals in the war while ensuring humanitarian aid reaches those in need. Despite Biden’s strong support for Israel’s security, he has been increasingly critical of Netanyahu’s handling of the conflict, calling for a “come to Jesus” meeting to address the bloodshed in Gaza.
Sullivan praised the Israeli military’s success in routing Hamas but also criticized the civilian casualties and humanitarian crisis that have resulted from the conflict. The discussions between the US and Israel reflect a delicate balance between supporting Israel’s security and addressing the humanitarian concerns in Gaza.
