The Biden administration has downplayed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent announcement regarding a planned ground offensive into Rafah, labeling it as mere bravado. Senior administration officials have indicated that Netanyahu's statement is likely influenced by his precarious political position within Israel.
Netanyahu has been facing challenges in balancing his objective of eradicating Hamas with the mounting pressure to secure a ceasefire that would result in the release of Israeli hostages. Israeli authorities assert that there are four Hamas battalions still present in Rafah that need to be neutralized.
Privately, multiple senior administration officials have characterized Netanyahu's declaration as an act of bravado rather than a concrete plan of action. Publicly, top US officials have expressed skepticism regarding Netanyahu's claims of setting a date for a ground offensive in the southern Gaza city.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the US has not been informed of any specific timeline for an operation in Rafah. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Netanyahu has not shared any operational details with the US government.
Furthermore, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was reportedly informed by Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant that Israel is still in the process of formulating a comprehensive plan and making necessary preparations for a potential invasion of Rafah. There has been no confirmation of a set date for such an operation.
In summary, the Biden administration remains cautious and skeptical of Netanyahu's assertions regarding a ground offensive in Rafah, emphasizing the lack of a clear plan or timeline communicated to the US government by Israeli officials.
