Israel has briefed Biden administration officials on a plan to evacuate Palestinian civilians ahead of a potential operation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah aimed at rooting out Hamas militants. The U.S. officials familiar with the talks revealed that the plan did not change the administration's view that moving forward with an operation in Rafah would put innocent Palestinian civilians at risk.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to carry out a military operation in Rafah despite warnings from President Joe Biden and other western officials about the potential for increased civilian deaths and worsening the humanitarian crisis. The Biden administration has cautioned Israel about the consequences of proceeding with the operation without a credible plan to safeguard civilians.
Approximately 1.5 million Palestinians have sought shelter in the southern Gaza city amid the ongoing conflict that began on Oct. 7 after Hamas militants attacked Israel, resulting in casualties and hostages. The United Nations humanitarian aid agency has warned that hundreds of thousands of people could face imminent risk of death if Israel proceeds with the Rafah assault, as the city serves as a critical entry point for humanitarian aid and is home to displaced Palestinians living in densely packed tent camps.
The evacuation plan discussed by the Israelis was not finalized, and both sides agreed to continue deliberations on the matter. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized the importance of protecting innocent Palestinian lives and stated that no comprehensive plan for a potential Rafah operation has been revealed to the White House.
CIA director William Burns arrived in Egypt to support negotiations for a cease-fire accord between Israel and Hamas. Hamas is considering a proposal for a cease-fire and hostage release put forward by U.S., Egyptian, and Qatari mediators to avert the Rafah operation. Israel and its allies are increasing pressure on Hamas regarding the hostage negotiation, while Netanyahu has indicated that Israeli forces will enter Rafah regardless of a truce-for-hostages deal.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken described the latest proposal as extraordinarily generous and urged prompt action. The situation remains fluid as discussions continue between the involved parties to address the escalating tensions in the region.
