Israeli war and security cabinets are set to convene Thursday evening following US President Joe Biden's statement that he would cease shipments of certain US weapons if Israel were to launch a full-scale ground attack in Rafah, as reported by two Israeli officials.
Biden's warning to halt military aid will be a central point of discussion during the meeting. The war cabinet will assess the remaining Israeli munitions, strategize on their future management, and deliberate on the trajectory of Israeli military operations.
Despite Biden's ultimatum, there is a prevailing sentiment within the Israeli government that it will not deter them from escalating military actions in Rafah. Israeli officials have expressed defiance and frustration, perceiving the US stance as abandonment during a critical phase of the conflict.
Israel's intensified offensive in Rafah has resulted in the displacement of over 80,000 Palestinians, according to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).
UNRWA shared a poignant message on Thursday, stating, 'The toll on these families is unbearable. Nowhere is safe.' This statement followed UN Secretary-General António Guterres' condemnation of a potential Israeli ground invasion in Rafah as 'intolerable,' emphasizing the urgent need for a ceasefire agreement and the release of hostages held by Hamas.
