Biden clarifies the US position to Netanyahu on the invasion of Rafah
Le président américain Joe Biden et le Premier ministre israélien Benyamin Netanyahu ont tenu des entretiens téléphoniques d’une demi-heure, axés sur la menace israélienne d’envahir Rafah et le flux d’aide humanitaire vers la bande de Gaza.
American Statements
- Reuters quoted a US official as saying that Biden discussed with Netanyahu the situation in Rafah, south of Gaza, during a phone call.
- Associated Press reported that President Biden reiterated Washington’s concerns about the military operation in Rafah to Prime Minister Netanyahu.
- Biden informed Netanyahu that reaching a ceasefire agreement with Hamas is the best way to protect the lives of Israeli captives in Gaza.
- The White House stated that Netanyahu agreed to ensure the opening of the Kerem Shalom crossing for humanitarian assistance to those in need.
American Position
According to John Kirby, Communications Advisor at the US National Security Council, they have made clear to the Israeli government their view on the large-scale invasion of Rafah. The negotiations for hostages are ongoing, and they do not support Israel’s decision to close Al Jazeera’s offices.
Israel’s Military Operation
The Israeli Ministry of Defense announced the start of a military operation in Rafah today, claiming it to be limited in scope. They warned 100,000 Palestinians to evacuate forcibly to the southwest of the sector.
War Crime
France warned that any forced displacement from Rafah would constitute a war crime, and Germany expressed concern about a potential humanitarian disaster due to the Israeli operation.
International Response
- The Palestinian Presidency announced intensive communication with regional and international parties, especially the United States, to stop the Israeli army’s invasion of Rafah.
- Hamas political bureau member, Azat al-Rashq, warned that any Israeli military operation in Rafah would disrupt ceasefire negotiations and would not be a walk in the park for the enemy’s army.
Current Situation
Since October 7, Israel, with American support, has been waging war on Gaza, resulting in approximately 113,000 casualties, mostly children and women. The significant destruction and famine have claimed the lives of children and the elderly.