Netanyahu says Israel will fight without weapons if necessary against U.S. threat.
The escalating tension between the United States and Israel reached new heights on Thursday when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that U.S. threats to withhold arms would not deter Israel from its offensive in Gaza. The possibility of an invasion of the densely populated city of Rafah looms, even against the wishes of Israel’s closest ally. President Joe Biden has strongly urged Israel to refrain from such a move, fearing exacerbation of the already dire humanitarian situation in the Palestinian enclave.
Netanyahu’s defiant response to Biden’s plea was clear in his statement released on Thursday: “if we have to stand alone, we will stand alone. If we need to, we will fight with our fingernails. But we have much more than fingernails.” This unyielding stance indicates Israel’s determination to press forward with its military operation, regardless of external pressures.
Israel’s top military spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, also downplayed the potential impact of any arms holdup, asserting that the army possessed the necessary munitions for the planned missions, including those in Rafah. This assurance underscores Israel’s readiness to pursue its objectives in Gaza, even in the face of international hesitance.
The looming threat of an invasion of Rafah, where over half of the enclave’s population has sought refuge, has raised concerns among aid groups and the United Nations. With reports of widespread hunger and the onset of a “full-blown famine” in northern Gaza, the humanitarian crisis in the region has reached critical levels.
Furthermore, the recent limited operation initiated by Israel, which saw a tank brigade capturing the Gaza side of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt, has only exacerbated the plight of vulnerable civilians and hindered ongoing humanitarian efforts. The closure of key entry points for aid and the disruption of relief operations have further compounded the challenges faced by the besieged population.
In response to Biden’s stance and the widening discord between Israel and its allies, analysts have highlighted the potential ramifications for the ongoing negotiations and efforts to secure a ceasefire. The hardened positions of both Israel and Hamas, coupled with the U.S. administration’s tough line, have complicated the path to a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
The toll of the conflict on the civilian population has been staggering, with thousands of Palestinians killed and displaced, and significant devastation wrought upon Gaza. The capture of the Rafah crossing by Israeli forces has only deepened the humanitarian crisis, with vital supply routes disrupted and aid deliveries hampered.
Despite the mounting challenges and the uncertain road ahead, efforts are underway to alleviate the suffering of the people in Gaza. International partners, including the United States, are mobilizing resources to support humanitarian operations and ensure the delivery of critical aid to those in need.
As the situation in Gaza continues to unfold, the international community faces a crucial juncture in addressing the pressing humanitarian needs of the population and advancing efforts towards a lasting peace. The resilience of the people in Gaza, the steadfastness of Israeli forces, and the diplomatic engagements of key stakeholders will ultimately shape the future trajectory of the conflict and pave the way for a more secure and stable region.
