The Biden administration is working diligently to finalize a crucial report for Congress this week regarding potential violations of international humanitarian law by Israel during its recent conflict in Gaza. This report holds significant implications and has sparked heated debates within the administration.
There have been internal disagreements within the State Department regarding Israel's compliance with international law while using US weapons during the 7-month conflict in Gaza. Some offices have raised concerns about Israel's assurances in this regard.
The report will also assess whether Israel has obstructed the delivery of US humanitarian aid, adding to the complexity of the situation. The timing of this report is critical as Israel contemplates a potential incursion into the city of Rafah, a move that President Joe Biden has cautioned against.
Meanwhile, efforts to secure a ceasefire and negotiate the release of hostages between Hamas and Israel have not yet yielded results. The situation has further escalated with pro-Palestinian protests on American university campuses, leading to the cancellation of graduation ceremonies in some institutions.
