Biden Administration Assessing Possible “Red-Line” Violation
The Biden administration is currently evaluating whether an Israeli airstrike that killed at least 45 displaced Palestinians at a tent camp in Rafah on Sunday breaches President Biden’s so-called “red line,” according to two U.S. officials.
President Biden had previously warned of potential sanctions, including suspending the delivery of U.S.-made offensive weapons, if Israel entered population centers in Rafah, a critical city in southern Gaza viewed as a Hamas stronghold. U.S. officials further clarified that a humanitarian crisis resulting from the mass displacement of civilians from Rafah could also constitute a violation of this red line.
The airstrike in Rafah, the deadliest incident since Israel commenced its offensive in the city in early May, resulted in the deaths of women and children, according to health officials in Gaza, governed by Hamas. This occurred shortly after the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to immediately halt its military operations in Rafah.
In response to the airstrike, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Monday that they had initiated an operational investigation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the civilian deaths as “a tragic mistake.” Meanwhile, a U.S. official indicated that the White House is working to determine the exact circumstances of the incident to decide if U.S. action is warranted.
A spokesperson for the White House National Security Council expressed deep concern, stating, “The devastating images following the IDF strike in Rafah last night that killed dozens of innocent Palestinians are heartbreaking. Israel has a right to go after Hamas … but as we’ve been clear, Israel must take every precaution possible to protect civilians.”
In the days leading up to the airstrike, White House officials believed they had significantly influenced Israel’s operational plans for Rafah to prevent mass civilian casualties. National security adviser Jake Sullivan held extensive discussions with senior Israeli officials, including Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and IDF chief of staff Herzi Halevi, about the Rafah operation. Following these talks, the U.S. had softened its opposition to the IDF’s expanded operations in Rafah.
The IDF explained that the strike targeted senior Hamas officials based on prior intelligence. The bombs used were designed to minimize collateral damage. Despite measures taken to avoid civilian harm, the strike resulted in significant casualties, prompting an investigation by the IDF’s Fact-Finding and Assessment Mechanism.
Jewish News Channel
At JNC we pride ourselves on delivering timely and accurate reporting on a wide range of topics, from politics and religion to culture and social issues, all through the lens of Jewish identity and values. Our dedicated team of journalists and correspondents is committed to bringing you the latest developments and insights that matter most to the Jewish community.
