Washington: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent declaration to take control of Gaza City marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, despite international warnings. However, the US government has shown minimal reaction to this development.

According to BBC, President Donald Trump indicated that the decision to occupy Gaza rests with Israel, declining to directly comment on whether the US supports the move. Instead, Trump diverted to discussing past US actions against Iran. The Israeli security cabinet’s announcement hinted at a focus on Gaza City rather than the entire Gaza Strip but emphasized maintaining Israeli security control.

The plan to take over Gaza City has been suggested as a long-standing objective of Netanyahu’s, with some analysts claiming he awaited an opportune moment. While Netanyahu has expressed a desire to transfer control to unspecified Arab forces, the US administration has not publicly opposed the plan.

This stance contrasts with previous US policies under Trump, who had been vocal about Gaza’s future. The US had previously pressured Israel to adhere to a ceasefire with Iran and disapproved of Israeli actions in Syria, indicating a shift in the White House’s approach.

Recent efforts by the Trump administration to negotiate a ceasefire in Gaza, led by Steve Witkoff, have collapsed, with Trump attributing the failure to Hamas. The administration’s current ambivalence may be a strategy to push Hamas into making concessions, as suggested by experts.

The US’s current course reflects a possible return to Trump’s non-interventionist policies, despite recent involvement in international conflicts. This shift is at odds with moves by France, the UK, and Canada to recognize a Palestinian state, aiming to pressure Israel towards a negotiated settlement.

As the US distances itself, the path chosen by Israel could lead to a prolonged military presence in Gaza, complicating future diplomatic efforts. The evolving US position may impact the broader geopolitical landscape, with uncertain outcomes for the region.