Based on the historical context and Ambassador Dennis Ross’ extensive experience in Middle East peace negotiations, it seems likely that the United States will continue supporting Israel, albeit with some potential pressure and calls for restraint regarding any major offensive in Rafah.

A few key points:

1. The U.S.-Israel relationship has been long-standing and robust, with the U.S. providing substantial military aid and diplomatic backing to Israel over decades, through administrations of both parties.
2. However, President Biden and his administration may exert some pressure on Prime Minister Netanyahu to avoid a large-scale invasion of Rafah that could lead to significant civilian casualties and global backlash.
3. Ambassador Ross was instrumental in past agreements like Oslo II and Hebron Accords, suggesting he may advocate for a measured approach emphasizing the necessity of any Israeli military action while still leaving room for a potential negotiated solution.
4. Global protests against Israeli actions in Gaza could influence U.S. positioning, as the Biden administration weighs its support against broader geopolitical interests and domestic political considerations.
5. Ultimately, while condemning Hamas’ rocket attacks, the U.S. is likely to continue its security backing for Israel as an ally while encouraging restraint and keeping some hope alive, however faint, for a negotiated peace deal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Much will depend on the scale of any Israeli offensive, the human toll, and the domestic U.S. political climate. But Ambassador Ross’s deep experience suggests the U.S. will calibrate its response carefully, supporting Israel’s security needs while exercising its influence to avoid escalation into a protracted and bloody conflict that could severely destabilize the region.