The United States is carefully monitoring the situation in Gaza as Israeli military activity in the southern city of Rafah intensifies. While acknowledging an increase in Israeli strikes, the Biden administration has been cautious not to suggest that Israel has crossed any red lines set by President Joe Biden.
Recent Israeli attacks on displaced families in Rafah have drawn international condemnation, with Israel confirming its forces are operating in the city's center. However, US officials note that Israel has thus far avoided large-scale assaults on densely populated neighborhoods and has kept its strikes more targeted compared to earlier stages of the conflict with Hamas.
Despite criticism from some quarters, the Biden administration maintains that Israel has adjusted its tactics to minimize civilian casualties while targeting Hamas operatives. The ongoing offensive has led to a mass exodus of Palestinians from Rafah, with humanitarian conditions deteriorating and aid reaching the territory slowly.
US officials emphasize that the current Israeli operation is not a major military campaign but rather an 'uptick' in military activity. They stress the importance of assessing whether the assault is causing excessive death and destruction or if it remains precise and proportional.
While the US has warned Israel about its conduct in Rafah and temporarily suspended a shipment of heavy bombs, the administration is also urging Hamas to accept an Israeli proposal for a cease-fire. The focus now is on policy actions that can bring about a positive shift on the ground in Gaza.
As the conflict continues, the international community closely watches the situation, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes the protection of civilians and promotes peace in the region.
