American news network "CNN" reported that the United States estimated that Israel has amassed enough forces on the outskirts of Rafah in southern Gaza to proceed with a large-scale invasion of the city within days. However, two senior U.S. officials were uncertain whether Israel had made a final decision to launch a major attack on Rafah, describing the move, if implemented, as "a direct challenge to President Joe Biden." One of the officials warned that Israel has not yet made adequate preparations, including establishing infrastructure related to food, hygiene, and shelter, ahead of the possible evacuation of more than a million Gaza residents currently residing in Rafah.