The postponement of high-level talks between US and Israeli officials has stirred up tensions as possible military operations in Rafah are being discussed. According to US officials speaking to CNN, talks could potentially happen in Washington as soon as Monday.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cancelled the scheduled talks after the US did not veto a UN resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. The Israeli delegation has proposed rescheduling the talks for this Monday, acknowledging the complicated timing as Sunday marks the deadline for drafting a new law for the military recruitment of ultra-Orthodox Jews.
Netanyahu has requested Israel’s top court to postpone the drafting deadline, which leaves uncertainty around whether the delegation will be able to travel to the United States if plans are still in flux. US officials have not confirmed a definitive date for the talks but have expressed willingness to work with their counterparts to reschedule in a timely manner.
The White House has shown support for rescheduling the talks, with US press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stating, “We are now working with them to find a convenient date that obviously works for both sides.” As tensions continue to escalate, the discussions on military operations in Rafah are crucial for both countries moving forward.