On Monday, the White House expressed strong disappointment over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to cancel a scheduled visit to Washington by a high-level Israeli delegation. Netanyahu’s move came after the U.S. abstained from a U.N. vote calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
White House spokesperson John Kirby conveyed disappointment, stating, “It’s disappointing. We’re very disappointed that they won’t be coming to Washington, D.C., to engage in a thorough discussion with us about viable alternatives to their ground involvement in Rafah.”
Mr. Kirby confirmed that senior U.S. officials would proceed with separate discussions with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, who is presently in Washington. The talks will encompass various matters, including hostages, humanitarian aid, and the safeguarding of civilians in the southern Gaza town of Rafah.
Mr. Kirby emphasized that despite the decision to abstain from the U.N. Security Council vote, U.S. policy remained unchanged. He underscored that U.S. officials retained the ability to address Washington’s concerns regarding Israeli policies in Gaza through ongoing discussions between the two governments.
“Our stance remains consistent: a significant ground offensive in Rafah would constitute a grave error,” Mr. Kirby stated.
