U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken cautioned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about potential global isolation if Israel were to launch an attack on the Palestinian city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip. Amid strained relations over Israel's actions in Gaza, Blinken emphasized that while the U.S. shares Israel's objective of defeating Hamas, a major military operation in Rafah could lead to civilian casualties, disrupt humanitarian aid, and diminish Israel's international standing.

Netanyahu asserted that Israel might proceed independently if the U.S. opposed plans to enter Rafah. He stressed the necessity of neutralizing Hamas forces in Rafah to defeat the group, expressing a willingness to act alone if needed. However, the feasibility of completely eradicating Hamas remains uncertain.

Washington deemed a ground offensive a mistake and advised against it, advocating for alternative strategies to address the Hamas threat without a full-scale assault in Rafah. The U.S. intends to present these options to Israeli officials during upcoming discussions.

The ongoing conflict has underscored tensions between the U.S. and Israel, as President Biden criticized Israel's actions in Gaza as excessive. Moreover, the situation has led to debate within the U.N. Security Council, with varying perspectives on proposed resolutions aimed at ceasefire and negotiations.

Hamas welcomed the Russian and Chinese veto of a U.S.-backed resolution, viewing it as a rejection of biased aggression against Palestinians. The conflict has resulted in numerous casualties and raised concerns about food shortages and humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

Efforts are being made to broker a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement, with divergent views on the duration and terms of a potential truce. The situation remains complex, with civilians in Rafah facing dire circumstances and uncertainty regarding safe havens or repatriation options.