Israel Responds to Biden’s Warning, Vows to Continue Offensive in Rafah
The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has responded to warnings from the US President, Joe Biden, regarding the end of military shipments if the Israeli Army advances on Rafah. In a recent statement, Netanyahu made it clear that Israel will continue its offensive against Hamas, even if the United States stops providing assistance.
Netanyahu’s defiant stance comes after Biden warned that the US would halt shipments of certain offensive weapons if Israel initiated a military operation in the southern city of Rafah. Biden expressed concerns that such an operation would lead to civilian casualties and hinder negotiations for the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Despite the warnings from the US, Israel has pressed forward with its offensive in Rafah, targeting terrorists and destroying underground tunnel entrances used by Hamas for weapons smuggling. The Israeli military has also taken control of the Rafah crossing, which connects the enclave to Egypt.
In response to Biden’s warnings, Netanyahu reminded the world of Israel’s victory in the War of Independence in 1948, when the state was founded. He emphasized Israel’s strength, unity, and determination to defeat its enemies, stating, “If we have to be alone, we will be. We will fight tooth and nail. We will win together.”
The situation in Rafah has led to the evacuation of tens of thousands of civilians, with many more fleeing the area in search of safety. Despite the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Rafah, Israel remains steadfast in its efforts to combat Hamas and secure its borders.
It remains to be seen how the escalating tensions between Israel and the United States will impact the ongoing conflict in Gaza. With both sides standing firm in their positions, the situation in Rafah continues to be a point of contention in the larger Middle East peace process.
(With information from EFE)