Israel to carry out Rafah invasion in stages? Gallant talks Gaza war in US - report

According to the report, the tone of the discourse was pragmatic, with suggestions that military action in Rafah should be carried out in stages to avoid harming the civilian population. 

 Palestinians burn tires during a protest against Hamas in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, on February 28, 2024 (photo credit: ABED RAHIM KHATIB/FLASH90)
Palestinians burn tires during a protest against Hamas in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, on February 28, 2024
(photo credit: ABED RAHIM KHATIB/FLASH90)

The discussions held in Washington between Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and senior White House and Pentagon officials centered on how to protect Gaza's civilians in the event of an Israeli military operation in Rafah, The Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday. 

According to the report, the tone of the discourse was pragmatic, with suggestions that military action in Rafah should be carried out in stages to avoid harming the civilian population. 

Gallant visits Washington amid US concerns over Rafah operation

 Defense Minister Yoav Gallant attends a state ceremony for fallen Israeli soldiers whose burial place is unknown at Mount Herzl Military cemetery in Jerusalem on March 17, 2024 (credit: Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant attends a state ceremony for fallen Israeli soldiers whose burial place is unknown at Mount Herzl Military cemetery in Jerusalem on March 17, 2024 (credit: Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)

On Tuesday, Gallant told reporters he had emphasized to US officials the importance of Israel's ties with the US. In addition, he highlighted during his visit the importance that Israel preserves its military capabilities in the region. 

Gallant's visit to Washington on Monday and Tuesday came amid concerns voiced by the US over a possible Israeli operation in Rafah. 

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly stated Israel would operate in Rafah to dismantle Hamas's four remaining battalions.

Reuters contributed to this report.