Despite withdrawing troops from the south of the Gaza Strip, Israel shows no signs of abandoning its assault on Rafah. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed that an offensive on the town, considered one of Hamas’ last strongholds in Gaza, is imminent.
The White House, French President Macron, Egyptian President al-Sissi, and Jordanian King Abdullah II have all called for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further escalation in the region. However, new negotiations for a truce between Israel and Hamas are underway, with pressure mounting on Netanyahu as his coalition allies warn against making concessions in the war against Hamas.
Meanwhile, Itamar Ben-Gvir of the far-right Jewish Force party has warned that if Netanyahu decides to end the war without launching an assault on Rafah, he may lose support from his mandate to serve as prime minister. The situation remains tense as Israel’s offensive plans clash with international calls for a ceasefire.
