Biden's 'Red Line' on Gaza Poised To Be Crossed As Israeli PM Netanyahu Plans Rafah Invasion: 'We'll Go There'

In a bold move that could escalate tensions in the Middle East, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly intends to invade Rafah, ignoring warnings from U.S. President Joe Biden and international leaders.

What Happened: Netanyahu is set on moving forward with an invasion of Rafah, situated on the Gaza Strip’s southern border, despite stark opposition from President Biden. On MSNBC last Saturday, Biden described such an offensive as a “red line” and voiced concerns over the potential loss of “30,000 more Palestinians,” reported Politico.

Netanyahu has countered by highlighting his own “red line” to prevent a repeat of the deadly Hamas raid on October 7. He claims to have backing from several unnamed Arab leaders in his stance against Hamas, which he labels as part of the “Iranian terror axis.”

He said on entering Rafah. “We’ll go there. We’re not going to leave. You know, I have a red line. You know what the red line is, that October 7 doesn’t happen again. Never happens again,” reported Politico.

Despite international calls for a ceasefire, the Israeli Prime Minister predicts the conflict could end within two months, citing significant damage to Hamas’ capabilities. He estimates over 26,000 total casualties, including 13,000 Palestinian fighters.

Netanyahu has also rejected the idea of a ceasefire for Ramadan and dismissed the possibility of a Palestinian state, which contradicts the international consensus but, according to him, reflects the will of the Israeli people.

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With U.S. elections looming, Biden faces the challenge of balancing the Democratic Party’s left wing, while Netanyahu navigates domestic pressures and the need for continued U.S. military and diplomatic support.

Why It Matters: Netanyahu’s decision comes after a series of events that have heightened tensions in the region. In February, it was reported that he ordered the military to prepare for civilian evacuations from Rafah, anticipating a broader offensive against Hamas.

Further, Benzinga detailed Netanyahu’s vow to “finish the job” in Gaza, with a member of his War Cabinet threatening an invasion of Rafah if Israeli hostages were not released by Ramadan.

President Biden’s frustration with Netanyahu’s approach was evident when he reportedly referred to the Israeli Prime Minister using derogatory language in private.

Moreover, In March Biden was overheard on a hot mic discussing a “come-to-Jesus meeting” with Netanyahu, indicating the U.S. President’s intent to exert pressure on the Israeli leader over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

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