US confirms Israel’s assurance to delay Rafah op for consultation

Israel has agreed to delay its military operation in Rafah following discussions with the U.S., addressing concerns amid ongoing assaults on the Gaza Strip, White House says

John Kirby, coordinator for Strategic Communications at the U.S. National Security Council, has revealed that Israel has provided assurances that it will delay entering Rafah until concerns can be discussed. This statement comes amid Israel’s planned military operation targeting Rafah, reflecting ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the situation.

As Israel’s assaults on the Gaza Strip persist, Kirby addressed Israel’s planned military operation against Rafah.

Kirby stated that Israel had agreed to heed U.S. concerns before moving forward with Rafah, elaborating, “They assured us that they would not enter Rafah until we had the opportunity to share our perspectives and concerns with them.”

6-week cease-fire proposal

Kirby announced that U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to visit the region next week. He stressed that Blinken will advocate for a temporary cease-fire during his visit, which the U.S. intends to extend for a minimum of six weeks.

“We aspire to transition into something more enduring after six weeks of a temporary ceasefire,” Kirby remarked.

US effort to vindicate Israel

Highlighting an increase in the number of aid trucks reaching the northern Gaza Strip, Kirby remarked, “The Israelis have commenced fulfilling the commitments outlined by President (Joe) Biden.

Source: Newsroom