Israel-Hamas War: 'US advised Israel to delay ground invasion'

The Biden administration has strongly recommended that Israel postpone a ground invasion of Gaza. This advice comes with the aim of allowing more time for hostage negotiations and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Palestinian population in the sealed-off region. According to a source based report, the U.S. officials have also expressed a need for additional time to prepare for potential attacks on U.S. interests in the area, particularly from Iran-backed groups. These attacks are anticipated to intensify once Israel fully deploys its forces in Gaza. It’s important to note that the Biden administration is not issuing a demand to Israel but continues to support the Israeli goal of eradicating Hamas, which controls Gaza and was responsible for a significant number of casualties in recent terrorist attacks. However, recent developments, including the release of two American hostages by Hamas, have prompted the U.S. to more urgently encourage Israel to engage in negotiations for the release of the remaining 212 hostages. President Biden held discussions with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding these matters. They agreed that there would be a continued flow of humanitarian assistance into Gaza following the entry of the first two convoys of aid. The leaders also discussed ongoing efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages, including U.S. citizens, and the safe passage of U.S. citizens and other civilians in Gaza who wish to leave the area. The advice to delay a ground invasion is being communicated through Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III, as the Pentagon is assisting Israel with military actions, including the potential ground invasion. Secretary Austin has been in regular contact with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant, discussing operational details, arms shipments, and the recovery of hostages. A spokesperson for Gallant declined to comment on these conversations. While the U.S. Embassy in Washington has denied advising Israel to delay the ground invasion, they maintain close dialogue and consultations with the U.S. administration. The hostage negotiations are primarily taking place through Qatar, which has close ties to Hamas. Hamas has warned that a ground invasion could make hostage releases less likely. U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken emphasized the importance of protecting civilians in the crossfire and facilitating humanitarian aid into Gaza. Furthermore, the U.S. is concerned about escalating tensions in the region, especially potential conflicts with Iran or pro-Iran groups. The U.S. has taken steps to defend its interests and personnel against such escalations. In response to these concerns, the U.S. State Department has ordered the departure of nonessential American government employees and family members from the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad and the U.S. Consulate in Erbil, Iraq. The travel alert for Iraq has been increased to Level 4 due to threats of terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, and civil unrest. While American officials are offering advice to Israel, they are cautious about appearing to control Israel’s actions. President Biden has posed questions and concerns to Israeli leaders rather than making requests. These questions include the transition after the operation, the impact on hostages, and the potential consequences of a two-front war. Despite the repeated delays in the ground invasion, there is growing tension between Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Gallant, with differing views on the scope of the military operation. Israel is also cautious about provoking Hezbollah, a powerful militia in Lebanon, and drawing it into the conflict with Hamas.