Israel seeks new US meeting after canceled Rafah talks

Israel has formally requested the United States to reschedule a meeting aimed at discussing its military operation in Gaza's Rafah. This plea comes just days after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu abruptly canceled his planned visit to Washington in protest of a U.N. cease-fire resolution.

White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre informed reporters, "We're now working with them to find a convenient date that's obviously going to work for both sides."

Netanyahu expressed frustration with the U.S.' decision on Monday to abstain from vetoing a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza and the release of captives held in the enclave.

US' abstention in resolution 'hurts' Israel's war effort in Gaza

Israel voiced its dissatisfaction, stating that the U.S.' abstention "hurts" its war effort and its endeavor to free hostages. Netanyahu's response included scrapping a scheduled visit to Washington by a senior Israeli delegation, leading to further strain in relations between the allies.

The White House expressed its disappointment and perplexity regarding the cancelation, considering it an overreaction to the resolution and asserting that policy had not changed under President Joe Biden's administration.

While no specific date has been confirmed for the rescheduled meeting, reports from U.S. news sources suggest it could occur as early as next week.

This decision follows constructive discussions held by Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant with senior U.S. officials over the past two days in Washington.

Israel's operation could lead to slaughter in Gaza

Despite warnings from Israel's allies and critics regarding potential civilian casualties, Netanyahu has sanctioned plans for a long-threatened ground invasion of Rafah, located at the southernmost tip of Gaza, where approximately 1.5 million displaced Palestinians have sought shelter.

The U.N. has cautioned Israel against such an operation, warning that it "could lead to a slaughter in Gaza."

Netanyahu reiterated on Wednesday that his decision to cancel the visit was intended to convey a message to Hamas that international pressure against Israel would not compel it to end the war without concessions from the group.

Source: Newsroom