Netanyahu’s decision to reschedule the meeting with the U.S. delegation to discuss Rafah comes after the U.S. allowed a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for a cease-fire in Gaza to pass by abstaining from the vote. This move led to Netanyahu canceling the meeting, citing the U.S. abandoning its policy that linked a cease-fire to the release of hostages. However, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed that the meeting would be rescheduled and discussions on a hostage deal and temporary cease-fire were ongoing.
The rescheduling of the meeting follows talks between U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, where the U.S. reiterated its support for Israel, despite the initial cancellation of the meeting. Rafah was discussed as one of a number of topics during the constructive talks between Israeli and U.S. officials. Netanyahu’s cancellation of the meeting came after the U.S. abstained from the UN vote, allowing the resolution for a cease-fire to pass during the holy month of Ramadan and calling for the release of hostages and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.
President Joe Biden had requested the delegation meeting to discuss Israel’s planned operations in Rafah, which Vice President Kamala Harris warned would be a mistake. Netanyahu has insisted on invading Rafah to destroy Hamas, despite opposition from world leaders and warnings of severe humanitarian impacts on the more than 1 million Palestinians seeking refuge in the town. The UN’s top humanitarian official had previously warned of a potential slaughter in Gaza if military operations were to take place in Rafah.
In a separate meeting with a bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation organized by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, Netanyahu emphasized the importance of maintaining bipartisan support and reiterated his stance on the war, stating that there is no substitute for victory. The rescheduled meeting with the U.S. delegation to discuss Rafah signals a continued dialogue between the U.S. and Israeli officials, as efforts are made to find common ground on issues related to the conflict in Gaza. The ongoing discussions on a hostage deal and potential cease-fire are seen as crucial steps towards addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
