Tel Aviv: Israel has given the go-ahead for a potential attack on the Gaza city of Rafah amidst ongoing ceasefire negotiations, while also keeping hopes alive for a diplomatic resolution through discussions with Qatar over a possible hostage release deal with Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced the approval of a plan to target Rafah, located on the southern edge of the Gaza Strip, where a significant portion of its population is currently seeking refuge after months of conflict.
Hamas and the Houthis are part of the “axis of resistance,” comprising Iran-backed movements hostile to Israel and the United States, along with Lebanon’s Hezbollah and Iraqi militias.
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The Houthis have been targeting Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war. Despite calls from global allies to refrain from attacking Rafah due to concerns of civilian casualties, Israel maintains that it is one of the last strongholds of Hamas, which it aims to eradicate, and that residents will be evacuated.
In Washington, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby expressed the US government’s desire to see a clear and implementable plan from Israel regarding Rafah, emphasizing the need to ensure the safety of civilians.
Meanwhile, Hamas has presented a ceasefire proposal to mediators and the US, which includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. However, Israel has deemed Hamas’ demands for hostage release as unrealistic.
The situation remains tense as negotiators continue efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement, with the international community urging both parties to prevent further escalation of violence and alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
