Despite the tragic loss of life in Rafah, the United States has defended Israel's ongoing military operations. The U.S. asserts that Tel Aviv has the right to target Hamas bases. This stance was reported by multiple media outlets, including the Times of Israel.

White House national security spokesman addressed the situation, acknowledging the Biden administration's close monitoring of events in Rafah. He described the deaths of innocent civilians, including women and children, as "catastrophic" and "heartbreaking."

The conflict escalated after Hamas fired rockets targeting several cities in Israel's central region, including Tel Aviv. Qassem Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, claimed responsibility for the attacks in a statement released on Sunday, May 26. In response, Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Rafah in the Gaza Strip.

The U.S. spokesman confirmed that the Israeli operation destroyed two Hamas targets and emphasized the necessity of the operation to locate members of the pro-independence group responsible for the attacks on Israel. He stated that Tel Aviv has been urged to take maximum measures to protect civilians. Additionally, the White House is collaborating with Israel to investigate the civilian casualties resulting from the operation.