Tensions Rise as Netanyahu Plans Offensive in Gaza Despite Biden’s Warnings
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing growing criticism as he moves forward with plans to launch an offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. Despite warnings from President Joe Biden against such a move, Netanyahu has reiterated the need to enter Rafah to eliminate the military and governmental capabilities of Hamas and release hostages.
The situation in Gaza is dire, with more than 31,000 Palestinians killed since the war started. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stated that 100% of those in Gaza are considered food insecure. Netanyahu is also under pressure from family members of the 130 hostages still believed to be in Gaza and members of the Cabinet pushing for a more aggressive approach.
President Biden has requested that Netanyahu send a senior interagency team to Washington to discuss alternatives to a ground offensive in Rafah. The relationship between the U.S. and Israeli governments has become strained since Hamas’ attacks in October. The U.S. maintains that Hamas should not be allowed a safe haven in Rafah and that a major ground operation there would be a mistake.
More than 1 million people have taken refuge in Rafah and have nowhere else to go, adding to the already dire humanitarian crisis. An invasion could worsen the situation even further. The international community is closely monitoring the situation as tensions continue to rise between Israel and the U.S.
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