Overview

• US and Israeli officials held virtual talks to discuss the Rafah operation and humanitarian concerns in Gaza.
• The Biden administration opposes a ground assault on Rafah, advocating for alternatives to minimize civilian casualties.
• Israel agrees to consider US concerns but emphasizes the need to defeat Hamas in Rafah.
• Further discussions between US and Israeli experts are planned, with a potential in-person meeting next week.
• The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant Palestinian casualties and a dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.