If Israel invaded Rafah, it would “change the rules of the game and cause a humanitarian catastrophe.” This was stated by outgoing Prime Minister Rutte in the House of Representatives. He added, “After that, we will meet as a government to deliberate. This is a political moment that will have consequences.”

Rutte conveyed this message to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, saying that access to humanitarian aid must now be the first priority.

In the extreme case, if Israel invades Rafah on a large scale, the Cabinet will discuss the possibility of imposing sanctions or other measures against Israel. But Rutte says there are no indications that such a raid is imminent.

According to Rutte, the Netherlands is in a diplomatic position, which means that “small steps” have been taken so far. “We want to see big steps from Israel now.” He rejects Dink’s criticism that there is no point in talking to the Israeli government. “We won’t achieve anything by stopping talking.”

European Union leaders intend to call on Israel at a summit in Brussels later this week not to go ahead with the long-awaited ground offensive, as announced last week.

US President Biden has also repeatedly expressed his concern about the humanitarian situation in Rafah if an Israeli invasion occurs. The United States wants Israel to first present a “credible plan” that guarantees the safety of innocent civilians. There is no such plan yet, according to the United States.

An Israeli delegation is likely to head to Washington early next week to discuss the situation. Therefore, the United States will propose an alternative plan to Israel, which avoids launching a ground attack in Rafah.

There are major concerns about the humanitarian situation in the southern city, which is home to 1.4 million Gazans. Many people live in camps under very poor conditions.