WASHINGTON (NewsNation) — The White House is preparing to welcome a team of Israeli military and intelligence leaders Monday ahead of high-level meetings this week to discuss strategy for the war in Gaza.
The relationship between the U.S. and Israel remains strained after President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris warned against a possible invasion of Rafah.
“We have been clear in multiple conversations and every way that any major military operation in Rafah would be a huge mistake,” Harris said in an interview aired Sunday on ABC’s “This Week.”
During the series of meetings this week, Israel is expected to request additional support from the U.S., specifically for funding and weapons. Legislation to bring billions of dollars in aid for Israel has stalled in Congress.
U.S. leaders could also voice concerns about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and a potential invasion of Rafah, which is currently home to over a million displaced Palestinians and serves as a crucial entry route for humanitarian assistance.
Israel has claimed that Rafah remains Hamas’ last stronghold, and that it already has an evacuation plan ready for civilians.
When asked what would happen if Israel went ahead with an invasion of Rafah, Harris did not share specifics, only saying the Biden administration has been clear with Israel about U.S. concerns.
