The White House and Israeli government are working to reschedule a crucial meeting after tensions rose over the U.S. decision not to veto a U.N. resolution calling for a cease-fire in Gaza. President Biden had requested Israeli officials to discuss alternatives to a ground offensive in Rafah, a city in southern Gaza where over a million people have sought refuge.
However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled the delegation’s trip to Washington at the last minute following the U.S. abstention from the U.N. Security Council vote on the resolution. The White House spokeswoman, Karine Jean-Pierre, confirmed that Israel has agreed to try to reschedule the meeting to discuss the Rafah operations.
Despite earlier denials from Netanyahu’s office, the White House remains hopeful for a rescheduled meeting. The U.S. had previously vetoed cease-fire resolutions but abstained this time, allowing the resolution to pass.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has strained relations between the U.S. and Israel, with concerns over civilian casualties and humanitarian conditions. The Biden administration is pushing for a temporary cease-fire and the release of hostages held by Hamas.
During a recent visit to the U.S., Israel’s defense minister met with senior officials to discuss alternative approaches to the conflict in Rafah. The U.S. presented precision targeting as a strategy to root out Hamas leadership, with plans for further discussions in the future.
Despite challenges in the negotiations, both sides are committed to finding a resolution to the conflict. The White House remains optimistic about brokering a cease-fire and securing the release of hostages. The efforts continue, despite setbacks in the talks.
The situation remains fluid, with both the U.S. and Israel working towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Gaza. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
