WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Talks are back on to bring top Israeli officials to Washington to discuss potential military operations in Gaza.
It comes after Israel’s prime minister canceled the trip earlier this week.
The White House is becoming more critical about how Israel is conducting this war, but some Republican senators say the Biden administration should stay out of it.
“His office has agreed to reschedule that meeting that would be dedicated to Rafah, which is a good thing,” said White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.
Netanyahu called off a planned visit to Washington by a senior Israeli delegation after the U.S. allowed passage of a Gaza ceasefire resolution at the United Nations.
Netanyahu said that emboldened Hamas and he wanted to send a message.
“It was a message first and foremost to Hamas: ‘Don’t bet on this pressure. It’s not going to work,” said Netanyahu.
He has the backing of South Carolina Republican Senator Lindsey Graham who was in Israel.
“Here’s my advice to you and your country. Get on with it,” said Graham.
The State Department says ceasefire is still the goal.
“We do want to achieve an immediate cease-fire that gets the hostages out and alleviates their suffering,” said Matthew Miller, State Department Spokesperson.
Both sides are still working on a date for that crucial visit.
