The Biden Administration has reportedly proposed providing Israel with “sensitive intelligence” regarding the locations of senior Hamas leaders, contingent upon Israel delaying its planned major military operation in Rafah, Gaza. According to The Washington Post, quoting four anonymous sources, this intelligence includes details on the whereabouts of Hamas leadership and their infrastructure, such as hidden tunnels.
This strategic offer also encompasses American support for humanitarian efforts, including the establishment of large tent encampments to accommodate Palestinians evacuated from Rafah, alongside infrastructure development for delivering humanitarian aid. These measures aim to mitigate the humanitarian impact amid the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip.
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During a briefing, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby confirmed ongoing US intelligence assistance, noting efforts to target key Hamas figures, including the group’s leader Yahya Sinwar. However, intelligence assessments suggest Sinwar may not be in Rafah but rather in tunnels near Khan Yunis.
This diplomatic maneuver comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that a comprehensive offensive in Rafah is crucial for dismantling Hamas’ military presence. Despite intense US scrutiny and a temporary halt on specific offensive weapons shipments to Israel, Netanyahu’s government continues its military activities in Gaza, with recent operations targeting the Rafah Crossing.
The ongoing conflict, which escalated dramatically following a Hamas-initiated massacre on October 7, has resulted in significant casualties and a complex humanitarian crisis. The US remains engaged in delicate balancing acts, providing intelligence support to Israel while trying to avoid further exacerbation of the crisis in densely populated areas like Rafah.