King Abdullah II of Jordan expressed firm concerns about Israel’s operation in Rafah, warning that it threatens to ignite a fresh humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza Strip. The monarch spoke after meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House, telling observers that Israel’s attack on Rafah cannot be allowed to proceed because it would compound the already dire suffering of civilians. He noted that more than a million people had fled their homes to Rafah since the current cycle of violence began, underscoring the precarious living conditions, scarce medical supplies, and limited access to clean water and food that accompany such displacements. The Jordanian leader emphasized the urgent need for international intervention to protect civilians and to ensure that aid can reach those in need without delay, highlighting the responsibility of the international community to prevent what he described as an escalating humanitarian disaster. The remarks were conveyed in a context of calls for restraint, accountability, and renewed focus on civilian protection, as the region watches for signs of de-escalation and a path back to humanitarian norms after weeks of intense fighting and disruption. (TASS)
The king stressed that in the current crisis it is not acceptable to stand by while the Palestinian-Israeli conflict unfolds unchecked. He urged a shift from military action toward diplomacy, de-escalation, and concrete steps to stop the fighting, protect civilians, and restore basic services to Gaza residents who have endured days of fear and disruption. His comments pointed to the broader goal of creating space for humanitarian corridors, allowing aid deliveries, and enabling safe, predictable conditions for civilians to evacuate or remain with dignity in their communities. In his view, regional stability and the safety of Jordan’s borders depend on stopping the violence and working toward a sustainable ceasefire, followed by inclusive negotiations that address the rights and needs of all people affected by the conflict. (TASS)
Earlier, President Joe Biden outlined that the Palestinian National Authority should immediately undertake reforms and begin preparations to regain governance over the Gaza Strip, laying the groundwork for renewed coordination with Israel that could lead to a credible peace process. The emphasis was on strengthening Palestinian governance structures, improving security coordination where feasible, and ensuring that humanitarian channels remain open as a precursor to any longer-term political arrangement. The message reflected a broader U.S. strategy that ties security stability to progress in governance and economic relief, while maintaining pressure to prevent a deterioration of conditions on the ground that could fuel further violence. (TASS)
Meanwhile, the World Health Organization described the Gaza crisis as unprecedented in its scale and severity, warning that famine conditions threaten countless civilians if aid is delayed or blocked. The agency called for immediate, unhindered access for humanitarian workers and a rapid supply of essential medical items, food, water, and shelter materials to mitigate the risk of widespread malnutrition and disease. The situation has drawn international calls for accountability, rapid humanitarian response, and coordinated efforts to ensure that vulnerable populations receive the relief they need while political negotiations work toward a durable resolution. (TASS)