White House confirmed that President Joe Biden’s policy towards Israel remains unchanged after a tragic strike in Rafah resulted in the deaths of over 45 individuals. White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated on Tuesday that while the incident was “heartbreaking,” it has not crossed the threshold that would compel a shift in the United States’ support for Israel.
“We’re awaiting Israel’s investigation into the strike,” Kirby informed reporters. “The Israelis will conduct their investigation, and we will closely monitor their findings.”
Despite the incident, Biden has not hinted at suspending arms shipments or other aid to Israel. This stance comes even after he indicated earlier this month in a CNN interview that he would restrict the use of certain U.S. weapons in major offensives in Rafah.
Kirby emphasized the need for Israel to protect civilian lives and acknowledged the risks of Israel becoming isolated from its traditional allies. However, he reiterated that current operations do not justify altering U.S. support.
The attack on the Rafah displacement camp over the weekend, which killed dozens and provoked global outrage, marked a significant escalation in Israel’s seven-month conflict with Hamas. Israeli tanks advanced into central Rafah on Tuesday, signaling a new phase in the offensive despite international calls for restraint.
Footage aired by CNN revealed the aftermath of the strike, showing the camp engulfed in flames and civilians desperately seeking shelter. Among the casualties were two Hamas leaders, according to Israeli sources.
Vice President Kamala Harris described the incident as “tragic,” while declining to comment on whether it crossed a red line.
“Israel’s current actions in Rafah do not constitute a major ground operation involving thousands of troops,” Kirby noted. “Should such a scenario arise, it may necessitate a reevaluation of our support.”
In contrast, European leaders have condemned Israel’s actions. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed outrage and called for an immediate ceasefire, stressing the lack of safe areas for Palestinian civilians in Rafah.
Israeli Defense Forces spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari suggested the strike might have unintentionally ignited stored weapons nearby, leading to the extensive fire that destroyed the camp.
Kirby assured that the U.S. would rely on Israel’s investigation for further decisions. “We’re not on the ground or involved in the operations. It is Israel’s responsibility to investigate, and we will review their findings.”
State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of transparency in the investigation’s results.
As the international community watches closely, the U.S. continues to uphold its strategic alliance with Israel, pending the outcomes of the ongoing investigations into the Rafah incident.
