The Biden administration’s approach to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict is beginning to change as Israel presses toward Rafah. Tensions are building as the administration is making moves is a change of posture.
The Biden administration has taken a significant step by proposing a draft resolution to the U.N. Security Council. This proposal calls for a temporary cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. The draft specifically urges Israel to refrain from a major ground offensive into Rafah, a city in the Gaza Strip that’s become a focal point in the conflict.
According to Reuters, the draft text highlights concerns that such an offensive would lead to further civilian harm and displacement, potentially affecting neighboring countries. This move by the U.S. represents a change of posture for the White House.
Critics, however, have voiced strong opposition to the proposal. Richard Goldberg, a former official in the Trump administration, criticized the resolution for effectively supporting Hamas’ survival. He argues that this approach betrays U.S. interests and values, framing it as a misguided effort that undermines Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorist threats.
Despite these criticisms, the Biden administration maintains that rushing to a vote on the resolution is neither necessary nor constructive. Instead, they advocate for allowing time for negotiations, hoping to find a diplomatic solution that addresses the core issues of the conflict.
“I’m hoping that the Israelis will not make a massive land invasion,” Biden said to reporters about the situation in Rafah.
What’s curious is that Israel has given Hamas until the beginning of Ramadan (which starts in early March) to release all hostages or they will invaded Rafah.
“The world must know and Hamas leaders must know if our hostages are not home by Ramadan, the fighting will continue and expand to Rafah,” said Benny Gantz, an Israeli security cabinet member and leader of the opposition party.
The strategic significance of Rafah further complicates the situation. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have expressed reservations about the proposed cease-fire, emphasizing the need to continue operations against Hamas, particularly in areas where hostages, including Americans, are believed to be held.
In recent statements, Israeli leaders have underscored the critical nature of the conflict, with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant highlighting the importance of decisive action against Hamas to prevent further military escalation and ensure the safety of hostages.
The U.S. State Department has also weighed in, advocating for a cautious approach to any military operation in Rafah. They emphasize the importance of a credible plan to ensure the safety and support of the over one million people sheltering in the area.
Biden did direct his administration to veto an immediate ceasefire. If the Biden administration thinks they can play both sides of the coin they may want to think again. Below is a social media post from a member of the left who is furious over the administration’s decision. I would encourage you to read the post because it shows the administration is not fooling anyone except maybe themselves.
Some thoughts on Biden’s disgraceful veto at the UNSC today.
Biden just vetoed – for the third time (!) – a UN Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza – while having the audacity of claiming that he seeks a ceasefire.
There is a pattern here.
This is… pic.twitter.com/A2GH174Jcz
— Trita Parsi (@tparsi) February 20, 2024