The decision by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to cancel a scheduled visit to Washington by a delegation of senior Israeli officials has left the White House puzzled. This move came in response to the United States abstaining from a United Nations Security Council vote on a draft resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza until the end of Ramadan, a decision that effectively allowed the resolution to pass.
John Kirby, spokesperson for the US National Security Council, expressed bewilderment at the cancellation, stating that the US remains steadfast in its policy regarding the situation in Gaza. He emphasized that the abstention from the resolution does not signal a shift in US support for Israel's actions against Hamas and reiterated the US stance that a cease-fire should be part of a broader deal securing the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Kirby also emphasized that it is the prerogative of the US, not Israel, to determine its own policy. He suggested that the Israeli government may be attempting to portray a divide where none exists.
Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant's visit to Washington, intended to discuss alternatives to a ground operation in Rafah, proceeded as planned. While this visit presents an opportunity for dialogue, it may not fully replace the broader discussions that were anticipated with the canceled delegation.
The Biden administration remains committed to exploring avenues for cooperation with Israel and sharing alternative approaches to address the situation in Gaza.
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