The Biden administration has thrown its support behind Israel’s efforts to seize the strategic Rafah crossing in Gaza, but has called for the crossing to be reopened to allow for the flow of humanitarian aid. Despite concerns for the safety of Palestinians in the area, the US considers Israel’s assault on Rafah to be “limited.”
Israel has intensified its bombardment of Rafah in recent days, resulting in the closure of the crossing and further straining the flow of essential aid to Gaza. Critically ill patients are now unable to leave Gaza for necessary medical treatment.
The US State Department has emphasized the urgent need to reopen the crossing, while also justifying Israel’s actions as a means to deprive Hamas of revenue. Israel has also closed the Karem Abu Salem border crossing following a rocket attack by Hamas.
The United Nations has called on Israel to immediately reopen both crossings to allow for the much-needed aid to reach Gaza. Meanwhile, Hamas has agreed to a ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar, which Israel has rejected but agreed to continue negotiations.
The US is heavily involved in the negotiations and believes that there is potential for a deal to be reached to end the current crisis. With tensions high and the humanitarian situation dire, all parties are hoping for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
