In an interview with Channel 12 of Israeli television, Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, stated that plans to launch a massive attack on the Gazan city of Rafah will be suspended once an agreement is reached with Hamas to release the hostages it holds. Katz emphasized the importance of releasing the hostages and indicated that the operation would be put on hold if a ceasefire agreement is reached.
Official Israeli sources confirmed that a new offer presented to Hamas is the final opportunity for the Palestinian organization to accept a ceasefire. Talks with Hamas, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, have been described as making progress, but Israeli officials have warned of the seriousness of the situation. There is growing concern that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, believed to be behind a recent massacre in Israel, is hiding in Rafah.
While some members of the Israeli war cabinet support the launch of an offensive on Rafah, others have expressed opposition. Ultra-right ministers have threatened to resign if the operation is canceled, underscoring the divisions within the Israeli government. The situation remains tense as negotiations with Hamas continue and the threat of a major offensive looms over Rafah.
As diplomatic efforts are ongoing in an attempt to reach a ceasefire agreement and avoid further violence in the region, both sides continue to navigate this delicate situation with uncertainty about what lies ahead for Rafah and its residents.
