Americans reportedly dubious of Israel’s Rafah plans in Gantz meetings

War cabinet minister Benny Gantz has struggled to convince White House officials of Israel’s position regarding the remainder of the war in Gaza as he holds meetings in Washington, Israel’s Channel 12 news reports.

According to the unsourced report, the Americans feel Israel has fallen short of explaining its war plans, especially given the expectation that fighting would end in January.

The issue of dealing with Rafah civilians made up the bulk of Gantz’s meeting with US Vice President Kamala Harris, with the administration insisting that Israel step up efforts to flood the area with aid, not troops, according to 12.

“The Israeli side has run into difficulties explaining Israel’s stance regarding the evacuation of [civilians] in Rafah before [military] action, with skepticism on the American side,” the channel says.

According to the report, Gantz told National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan that Israel was “committed to finishing the job.” He also told Sullivan that Israel was not interested in war against Hezbollah, but is rather seeking deterrence by displaying steadfast US backing to supply arms.