On MSNBC’s “The Andrea Mitchell Report,” which aired Friday, White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said there was no way Israel had a “credible plan” to invade Rafah that the White House supported. He said it was “not clear” whether it was even possible.
Sullivan said.[W]We have made clear that our policy in Gaza will be determined by the measures taken by Israel, both with regard to facilitating life-saving humanitarian assistance and protecting civilians during operations. We also made clear absolutely deep and fundamental concerns about the large-scale military operation in Rafah. Because, first of all, we believe that that’s where the aid will come in. And cutting off that aid will make it even more difficult to eat and live. people. Secondly, as you said, this is a place where over a million people have taken shelter, as they have been gradually displaced as Israel continues its military operations. And it’s not clear to us that there can be a reliable plan for where they’re going to get shelter, housing, medicine, and everything else they need. We therefore continue to express our concerns publicly and privately to the Israeli government. I have discussed this issue directly with them. And we will continue to do so. I don’t want to get into the details of sensitive diplomatic conversations. Let me just say that the US position on this issue remains clear. And Israel understands where we come from. ”
He added, “[W]We will continue to make decisions based on what he believes is in the best interest of the American people and most consistent with American values. That’s what guides him today and will always guide him through the rest of this conflict. ”
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