President Biden has cautioned Israel against conducting a ground offensive in Rafah unless it has a “credible and executable plan” to ensure the safety of Palestinian civilians. The two leaders spoke by phone as panic spreads throughout the Gaza Strip, the last refuge for Hamas terrorists. The United Nations has reported that over a million Palestinians are currently crammed into the area, uncertain of where to go as Israel prepares for an invasion.
Israel remains committed to a ground offensive in Rafah after weeks of airstrikes. Israeli military spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Peter Lerner said there is no alternative and “no option from Israel’s perspective.” It is still unclear when the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) will launch its offensive, but reports indicate that Palestinians are already fleeing the region near the Egyptian border.
President Biden and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres both warn of a “bloodbath” if Israel proceeds, emphasizing that the area is a vital aid route into Gaza. They are among many world leaders urging Israel to exercise restraint.
Saudi Arabia has warned of “very serious repercussions” if the ground offensive takes place, while UK Foreign Minister David Cameron expressed that he is “deeply concerned” at the prospect. Various aid agencies have also spoken out, stating that a humanitarian catastrophe would result from the ground invasion.
However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears resolute and told ABC News, “We’re going to do it.” The Prime Minister is determined that the “last remaining” Hamas terrorists are hiding out in Rafah, and he reiterated his promise to Israelis to obliterate Hamas for its terror attack on Israeli civilians last October.
Netanyahu sought to reassure leaders, including President Biden, that he was aware of the need to prevent civilian deaths. “We’re going to do it while providing safe passage for the civilian population so they can leave,” he said.
