In a recent statement, the National Security Council spokesperson revealed that US President Joe Biden firmly opposes an Israeli military occupation of the Gaza Strip. The White House national security spokesperson, John Kirby, emphasized that Biden believes “a reoccupation by Israeli forces of Gaza is not the right thing to do.” These remarks come in response to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s suggestion that Israel would take control of security in Gaza after the ongoing Israel-Hamas war concludes.
Netanyahu asserted that Israel would assume responsibility for security in Gaza for an “indefinite period,” citing concerns over the eruption of Hamas terror in the absence of Israeli security forces. However, Kirby emphasized that discussions regarding the future of post-conflict Gaza and its governance need to take place. He also added that the situation cannot revert to how it looked on October 6.
President Biden has previously expressed his belief that Israel occupying Gaza would be a “mistake.” This stance aligns with his administration’s commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The current conflict began when Israel launched an air and ground offensive against Hamas in response to the group’s deadly rampage in southern Israel. According to Israeli officials, the rampage resulted in the deaths of 1,400 people and the hostage-taking of over 230 others. In response, Israel’s bombardment of Gaza has caused significant casualties, with Palestinian health authorities reporting at least 10,328 deaths, including 4,237 children.
Despite mounting international pressure for a ceasefire, both Israel and Hamas have refused to halt their fighting. Israel argues that Hamas should release the hostages before considering a ceasefire, while Hamas insists on continuing the fight until Gaza is no longer under assault.
Israeli ground troops have been engaged in battles with Palestinian fighters within Gaza for over a week, effectively dividing the territory and encircling Gaza City. The Israeli military spokesman, Daniel Hagari, stated that ground forces are currently operating in the heart of Gaza City, exerting significant pressure on Hamas.
Meanwhile, Israel has intensified its strikes on the Gaza Strip, leading to an increase in the number of Palestinians fleeing Gaza City towards the south. Many are leaving on foot, some pushing elderly relatives in wheelchairs, and all visibly exhausted. In Deir al-Balah, rescue workers have retrieved several dead bodies, including three children, from the wreckage of a collapsed building.
The situation in Gaza is further compounded by the Israeli-imposed siege, which severely restricts access to essential resources such as food, water, and electricity. Fuel supplies have also been cut off, leaving more than 2.3 million people trapped in the besieged enclave. Although some aid has entered through the Rafah crossing with Egypt, United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has described it as a mere “trickle” compared to the immense need.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) reported an incident where a humanitarian convoy, transporting medical supplies to Al-Shifa Hospital, came under fire in Gaza City. The driver sustained light injuries, and the source of the fire remains unidentified. Moreover, the Rafah crossing was temporarily closed after Israeli forces targeted an ambulance en route to the crossing.
As the Israel-Hamas conflict rages on, international attention remains focused on finding a peaceful resolution and alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. President Biden’s stance against an Israeli military occupation of Gaza reflects his commitment to pursuing diplomatic solutions and ensuring the safety and well-being of the Palestinian population.
