Jordan’s King Abdullah expressed grave concerns to U.S. President Joe Biden over the potential repercussions of an Israeli military offensive in Rafah during a private meeting on Monday.
The Jordan royal court issued a statement after Abdullah’s meeting with Biden at the White House, warning that such an offensive could result in a “new massacre” of Palestinian civilians and lead to regional escalation of the conflict.
Israel had conducted airstrikes in Rafah and instructed Palestinians to evacuate parts of the city, where over a million displaced individuals from the ongoing seven-month war are residing.
Hamas reiterated its demand for an end to the conflict in exchange for the release of hostages, a proposal firmly rejected by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Tensions escalated further as Hamas attacked the Kerem Shalom crossing into Gaza, resulting in the death of three Israeli soldiers.
In a phone call, Biden urged Netanyahu to refrain from launching a large-scale military offensive in Rafah without adequate measures to protect Palestinian civilians.
Abdullah emphasized to Biden the critical importance of efforts aimed at securing an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to achieving a sustainable ceasefire and facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Strip amidst dire conditions.
The White House underscored the need for the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas and emphasized the urgency of a ceasefire to enable the safe delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza.
Biden and Abdullah also discussed the imperative of working towards a lasting peace that includes the establishment of a Palestinian state with security assurances for Israel.
The Biden administration and Israeli officials remain at odds over Israel’s proposed military incursion in Rafah, heightening tensions amid escalating violence in the region.
Both leaders are committed to addressing the challenges posed by the conflict and ensuring the safety and well-being of civilians caught in the crossfire.
