US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke during a phone call regarding Israel’s intention to open more crossings into northern Gaza this week, facilitating increased humanitarian assistance in the region, according to the media reports.
The crossings in question, namely the Karni and Erez crossings, are set to be fully opened by Israel, along with Gate 96, to allow access into northern Gaza for aid purposes. Opening more crossings is deemed crucial for ensuring a steady influx of aid into Gaza, especially amidst fears of potential famine. Additionally, these openings become even more vital if Israel proceeds with a significant invasion of Rafah, as it could isolate the existing humanitarian hub from the rest of Gaza.
The White House readout also stated that the two leaders discussed a potential Israeli offensive in Rafah and that Biden “reiterated his clear position.”
While the readout doesn’t provide additional details, the US has made it clear that it cannot endorse any operation that fails to guarantee the complete protection of the more than one million Palestinians seeking refuge in Rafah, Gaza’s southernmost city. Moreover, US officials have consistently voiced their opposition to a significant operation in Rafah without any exceptions.
In relation to recent improvements in the flow of aid into Gaza, Biden on the call “stressed the need for this progress to be sustained and enhanced in full coordination with humanitarian organisations.”
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