Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused certain Israeli officials of collaborating with the United States to prevent a ground assault in Rafah, located in the southern Gaza Strip. The accusation emerged during a meeting of the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, where Netanyahu expressed frustration over the perceived obstruction.
Although Netanyahu refrained from naming specific officials, his remarks came shortly after a conversation with US President Joe Biden on Monday, marking their first discussion in a month. Israel had previously announced intentions to undertake a significant military operation in Rafah, a city where over 1.4 million people sought refuge amid Israel’s ongoing conflict with Gaza. Despite international objections to the proposed assault, Netanyahu greenlit plans for the operation on March 15.
Netanyahu attributed the US criticism he faced to his stance against establishing a Palestinian state. He opposes US efforts to allow the Palestinian Authority to govern Gaza following the conclusion of Israel’s military campaign against the territory.
Meanwhile, Washington contends that post-war Gaza requires Palestinian authority or governance. The Israeli military offensive on Gaza commenced following a Hamas attack in October, resulting in significant casualties and widespread destruction. The conflict has left over 31,800 Palestinians dead and nearly 74,000 injured, predominantly affecting women and children.
The war has led to the internal displacement of 85% of Gaza’s population, exacerbated by a blockade restricting access to essential resources like food, water, and medicine. Additionally, 60% of the enclave’s infrastructure has suffered damage or destruction, according to the UN.
Israel faces accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice, prompting an interim ruling in January requiring Tel Aviv to prevent genocidal acts by its forces and ensure the provision of humanitarian aid to Gaza civilians.
