The White House responds to Israeli airstrike in Rafah, Gaza, condemns loss of civilian lives, but maintains that Israeli actions do not cross US President’s ‘red line’ for military conflict. The incident has amplified international concerns and exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Rafah.
White House on Israeli Strike in Rafah
An Israeli airstrike on Rafah, Gaza, resulted in the deaths of at least 45 civilians, including women and children. This incident has drawn extensive international condemnation. Israel stated the strike targeted two senior Hamas officials and suggested the civilian casualties were due to a nearby weapons store explosion.
In response, the White House condemned the loss of innocent lives but stated the Israeli actions have not crossed U.S. President Joe Biden’s established “red line” for the conflict, which would necessitate halting weapon supplies if Israeli forces entered significant population centers in Rafah.
John Kirby, spokesperson for the National Security Council, emphasized that although the event was “horrific,” the U.S. does not currently see it as a “major ground operation” that would alter U.S. policy towards Israel.
The situation has further fueled the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Rafah, a key entry point for relief before intensifying Israeli military activities. Over 36,000 Palestinians have died since the conflict began on October 7, sparked by Hamas-led militants’ attack on southern Israeli communities, which killed around 1,200 people and resulted in more than 250 hostages.
The “All Eyes on Rafah” slogan has gained traction on social media, urging global attention on the suffering in Rafah. This phrase, likely originating from a World Health Organization official’s comments, has been widely shared, including by celebrities like Aaron Paul and Nicola Coughlan. The phrase has been used to highlight the escalating violence and humanitarian needs in the region.
Despite international outcry and calls from the International Court of Justice to cease military operations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labeled the civilian casualties a “tragic accident,” insisting on continuing the military campaign against Hamas.
