Biden and Netanyahu discuss Rafah, aid to Gaza

US President Joe Biden had a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, during which they talked about Rafah and the steps being taken to boost assistance to Gaza, according to a statement from the White House.

"President Biden spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to discuss the latest developments in Israel and Gaza, including the situation in Rafah and efforts to surge humanitarian assistance to Gaza," the White House said.

In a separate statement, Netanyahu mentioned that during their conversation, they talked about Israel's dedication to achieving its goals for the war, the dismantlement of Hamas, the freeing of all hostages, and ensuring that Gaza could no longer threaten Israel.

This would be done "while providing the necessary humanitarian aid that helps achieve those goals", Netanyahu said in a statement.

This conversation marked the first time Biden and Netanyahu had spoken since 15 February.