US Approves Potential Israeli Rafah Operation in Exchange for Non-Counterstrike Agreement on Iran
The United States has granted approval for a potential Israeli military operation in Rafah, as reported by a reputable international source. According to a Thursday article from The New Arab, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu successfully negotiated American approval for the operation in return for refraining from carrying out a wide-scale military strike against Iran in response to their recent attack.
The American administration has reportedly expressed opposition to an Israeli counterstrike on Iran. Israeli claims of the United States playing a significant role in repelling the Iranian attack and preventing its success were noted as a factor contributing to the infeasibility of an Israeli response.
Israel Conducts Airstrikes on Gaza Strip Border
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a series of airstrikes on areas near the Gaza Strip border on Thursday, according to the report. A senior official noted that relevant Egyptian officials were informed prior to the execution of some of these strikes. It is important to mention that these airstrikes took place in the Philadelphi axis, an area near the border with Egypt.
It is worth noting that despite some Israeli officials expressing a desire to retaliate against Iran, a report by the KAN broadcasting channel quoted Israel’s ambassador to the US, Michael Herzog, stating that Israel would react to Iran’s actions in the near future and added a concern that Iran’s missiles might ultimately be equipped with nuclear warheads.
Egypt’s Position in the Potential Israeli Ground Invasion in Rafah
Egypt, a key player in the ongoing tensions, demonstrates full readiness and preparedness along the border strip shared with the Gaza Strip, specifically in Rafah. Egypt’s role has been exemplified by the prompt deployment of forces in northern Sinai. Egyptian law professor Dr. Ayman Salama reiterated that any alteration in the military situation necessitates Egypt’s approval. Salama added that Israel would be unable to establish buffer zones on the Egyptian-Israeli border or modify the security annex of the peace treaty between the two countries on the grounds of urgent security needs without direct threats.
Given Egypt’s critical position, sharing borders with southern Gazan city Rafah and a substantial border with Israel, Egyptian military officials stress the importance of ensuring that the civilian population of Rafah is properly evacuated before any border crossings are closed.