In a pivotal move to reshape Israel’s stance on the ongoing conflict with Hamas, the Biden administration exerted substantial pressure on its ally, emphasizing the need to safeguard Palestinian civilians. The diplomatic maneuver, occurring just before Israel announced the resumption of combat operations, marks a significant chapter in the more than 50-day-long conflict.
The core question now lingers: Is Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government ready to heed the call?
Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during private discussions in Jerusalem with Netanyahu and his war cabinet, outlined stringent American requirements. Notably, Blinken publicly articulated the Biden administration’s approach in unmistakable language, asserting, “I underscored the imperative of the United States that the massive loss of civilian life and displacement… not be repeated in the South.”
His televised press conference in Tel Aviv, preceding the expiration of a seven-day pause, emphasized the necessity for Israel to implement humanitarian civilian protection plans before resuming major military operations. The focus extended to safeguarding hospitals, power stations, and critical facilities. Netanyahu acknowledged the need to take steps to protect civilians, but the effectiveness and sincerity of these efforts remain pivotal questions.
The Israel Defense Forces declared the resumption of operations against Hamas, accusing the group of violating the agreement and firing towards Israel.
Blinken’s candid discussions with Israeli officials unfolded against a backdrop of growing fragility in the temporary halt to hostilities. The stark tone in his public statements, in contrast to earlier advisory comments from the Biden administration, signifies a heightened attempt to wield U.S. influence.
U.S. politics takes center stage as officials, both in private conversations and anonymous remarks to journalists, stress the importance of Israel exercising greater caution to protect Gazans when the fighting resumes. Blinken’s public stance reflects a concerted effort to influence Israel’s actions, challenging assurances regarding civilian casualties following the October 7 Hamas terror attack.
The decision to vocalize concerns publicly underscores skepticism from the White House, suggesting a nuanced evaluation of Israel’s commitment to minimizing civilian harm. Blinken succinctly noted, “Intent matters. But so does the result.”