US argues in negotiations with Israel that the Rafah operation has a limited scope

May 8, Washington (IANS/DPA) Following discussions with the Israeli administration, the US government is certain that the army’s advance on the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah is a “limited” operation.

During a “major operation in Rafah in densely populated areas that would give higher risk to civilians and civilian casualties,” we have “repeatedly and consistently” made known our concerns, National Security Council Communications Director John Kirby said on Tuesday.

In discussions with Israeli officials, Washington was reassured, meanwhile, that it was an operation of “limited duration in size, scope, and scale” with the goal of impeding Hamas’ capacity to get weapons over the Rafah border.

He indicated that more action was being taken.

For discussions about a hostage deal with the Islamist Palestinian group Hamas, Kirby expressed his belief that both parties could reconcile and reach a consensus on any unresolved issues.

Kirby added that Washington will do all within its power to help this process and bring about this outcome, but he did not elaborate. He remarked that it was important to allow the negotiators to overcome the gaps that currently exist at this delicate level and at this extremely sensitive period in the discussions.

Still, he replied, This appears plausible in light of the text.