In the face of increasing skepticism in Washington around Israel’s planned invasion of Rafah, where some 1.4 million displaced Palestinians take refuge, the America Israel Public Affairs Committee spent this week lobbying Congress to support the operation.
AIPAC’s Argument for Invading Rafah
Talking points sent to congressional offices by AIPAC argued that invading Rafah is the only way to take out Hamas, stating that Israel had “no other option.” The memo emphasized that there is no recent military history example of defeating a force like Hamas in Rafah without entering the city. While commando raids and arms embargoes may have a positive impact, they will not defeat Hamas, according to AIPAC.
Washington’s Response
However, officials in Washington have been vocal against Israel’s plan to invade Rafah. President Joe Biden announced that the U.S. would stop supplying Israel with heavy weapons if the invasion proceeds. Last week, 57 House Democrats wrote to Biden, calling an offensive invasion into Rafah by Israel unacceptable and urging him to pause weapon shipments. The Biden administration halted one shipment of offensive weapons to Israel and is reviewing other arms shipments.
The Humanitarian Crisis in Rafah
Horrific images from the ongoing bombings in Rafah have circulated, depicting the devastating impact on civilians. Despite AIPAC’s claims that Israeli forces have taken steps to limit civilian casualties, the reality on the ground paints a different picture. Recent Israeli airstrikes resulted in the deaths of innocent civilians, including women and children.
Ceasefire Negotiations and Hostage Situation
AIPAC argues that Hamas’s refusal to accept a ceasefire proposal is a reason for the continued conflict. The group accepted its own proposal, brokered by Egypt and Qatar, while key sticking points remain unresolved. Hamas holds an estimated 132 hostages captured on October 7, which has been central to ceasefire negotiations. Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu vowed to invade Rafah regardless of a deal on the hostages.
The Impact on Hostages and Civilians
Hamas released some hostages during temporary ceasefires, while Israeli forces saved others during rescue operations. However, the Israeli military has also killed hostages during military operations in Gaza. Ahead of the Rafah operation, concerns were raised about the lack of notification to hostage families regarding the risks posed by the invasion.
Conclusion
As tensions escalate over Israel’s planned invasion of Rafah, AIPAC’s lobbying efforts to garner congressional support for the operation continue. The humanitarian crisis in Rafah, coupled with the hostage situation and civilian casualties, underscores the complexity and urgency of finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Washington’s stance on supplying weapons to Israel and calls for a ceasefire highlight the international community’s concern over the escalating violence in the region.