Experts weigh in as US shifts stance on Israel's actions in Gaza, refuses support for Rafah offensive

Speaking to CNBC-TV18, KP Fabian, former India Envoy to Qatar, highlighted the changing stance of the United States towards Israel's actions.

Fabian noted that while the US initially advised Israel privately and publicly against ground actions in Gaza, the language regarding Rafah is now different, indicating that the US will not support it. However, there remains ambiguity about what this lack of support entails, whether it pertains to diplomatic support or cease the arms supply.

Fabian further explained the political dynamics at play for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggesting that his reluctance to agree to a long pause or permanent ceasefire is driven by self-interest.

He said, "Benjamin Netanyahu will not agree to a long pause or a permanent cease-fire for the reason that if either happens, then his political career will be in peril. And he might even go to jail pretty soon. So it is in his interest to prolong the war and even to expand the war. But he is caught between, two fires on the one hand pressure from the United States and the rest of the international community, especially Western Europe, which has been supporting him."

Harsh V Pant from the Observer Research Foundation echoed the sentiment of growing impatience from the United States towards Netanyahu's actions.

Pant stated that the Biden administration is likely to take a tougher stance than in the past, especially considering the domestic political challenges Biden faces.

The possibility of former President Trump intervening in support of Israel adds to the complexity of the situation, potentially impacting Biden's already delicate polling numbers.