The US has recommended Israel to not rush into launching their ground offensive. Diplomatic sources are demanding more time to be able to continue negotiations to free hostages, while military advisors sent by the Pentagon pointed out that the Israeli Defense Forces do not have specific objectives nor are they fully prepared to successfully launch a prolonged incursion into the strip.
The Biden Administration continues to show its unwavering support for Israel, and insisted that they are not making claims or giving instructions to the Jewish country, but rather "recommendations" and support. In this sense, the Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin, spoke with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant, with whom he expressed the need for a thorough and detailed plan before sending the infantry into Gaza. In addition, he confirmed the dispatch of several military advisors, led by Lieutenant General James Glynn, a three-star Marine, to help them meet the challenges of a three-star war, reports The New York Times.
High cost of lives and fear of a breakdown in negotiations
An analyst at the Washington Institute, Michael Knights, pointed out the difficulties that Israeli troops would face if the ground offensive ends up being carried out, stressing that, whichever model is chosen, the cost in lives will be very high. :
Hamas has had 15 years to prepare a dense 'defense in depth' that integrates underground, above-ground and ground fortifications, communication tunnels, emplacements and combat positions. as well as possible minefields, improvised explosive devices, explosively penetrating anti-armor mines and buildings prepared as booby traps.
In addition to military reasons, humanitarian and diplomatic reasons are added. According to The Times of Israel, the White House expressed interest in delaying the operation in order to advance negotiations to free the hostages held by Hamas and so that more aid can reach the citizens of the Gaza Strip. According to the NYT, events are accelerating since the terrorist group's first release of hostages "for humanitarian reasons," prompting Washington to "more urgently suggest" Israel not to rush.
