President Biden urges Netanyahu to protect civilians in Rafah amid escalating conflict in the middle east

During a recent call between U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden emphasized the importance of protecting Palestinian civilians in the southern part of the Gaza Strip. Biden warned Netanyahu against pursuing military action in Rafah without a credible and executable plan to safeguard the approximately 1 million people seeking shelter in the area.

The leaders also discussed the ongoing hostage negotiations, with Biden reaffirming his commitment to working tirelessly to secure the release of hostages held in Hamas captivity for 132 days. The White House underscored Biden's dedication to facilitating the safe return of the hostages.

International pressure 

Meanwhile, Israeli forces reportedly conducted a raid on the largest functioning hospital in Gaza. This incursion has raised concerns about the safety of hundreds of patients, medical workers, and displaced Palestinians who had sought refuge at the hospital. The incident has prompted fresh alarms over the well-being of individuals in the conflict-ridden region.

Amid escalating tensions, Israel is facing mounting international pressure to exercise restraint, particularly regarding its offensive actions in Rafah, which is considered one of the last relatively safe areas in Gaza. President Biden previously expressed grave concerns over the rising civilian death toll in the Palestinian enclave and highlighted the need for Israel to reconsider its military response.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas began on Oct. 7, initiated by Iran-backed Hamas fighters, who launched attacks into Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people, the majority of whom were civilians. Additionally, Hamas seized 253 hostages, according to Israeli reports. Israel subsequently launched an air and ground offensive, causing significant devastation in the densely populated Gaza Strip. Health authorities have reported a staggering death toll of 28,663, predominantly civilians, as well as the displacement of nearly all of Gaza's over 2 million inhabitants.

In this transformed version, the emphasis has been shifted to highlight President Biden's continued efforts to urge Israel to prioritize the protection of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. The revised content presents a balanced perspective of the ongoing negotiations, international pressure, and the human impact of the conflict.