Israel has initiated a military operation in Rafah after rejecting Hamas’ claim of a ceasefire as a deceptive move. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Monday night local time that targeted strikes were underway against Hamas terror targets in eastern Rafah, located in southern Gaza.
The conflict has drawn global attention to the southern city in the Gaza Strip, where more than 1 million Palestinians have sought refuge amid escalating tensions.
President Joe Biden has repeatedly urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to avoid a military offensive in Rafah unless civilian safety could be assured. This message was reiterated during a call between the two leaders earlier on Monday.
White House national security spokesman John Kirby emphasized the president’s stance against ground operations in Rafah, citing concerns for civilian well-being.
The decision to proceed with the military action came after Israel’s war cabinet unanimously voted to target Hamas’ final stronghold in an effort to apply military pressure on the terror group. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office stated that the goal includes making progress on freeing hostages and other strategic objectives.
Netanyahu criticized Hamas’ ceasefire offer, labeling it as falling short of Israel’s demands. Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh had announced the group’s acceptance of a ceasefire deal, but Israeli officials dismissed it as a deceptive tactic to incite backlash against Israel.
Despite the rejection, Israel is dispatching a negotiation team to Cairo to explore the possibility of reaching an acceptable agreement. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasised that the US supports negotiations in Cairo as the preferred path to a ceasefire.
The announcement of Hamas’ acceptance of a ceasefire triggered celebrations in Gaza, with Palestinians expressing hope for a cessation of hostilities.
However, Israel maintains its stance against ceasefire deals that do not address long-term security concerns. Netanyahu reiterated that the conflict will only end once Hamas is neutralised and Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel.
The ongoing military operations have prompted thousands of Palestinians to flee parts of Rafah following Israeli warnings of impending military action. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk warned of a looming humanitarian crisis if the situation escalates further in southern Gaza’s most populous city.
IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari assured Palestinians fleeing eastern Rafah would receive humanitarian aid in designated zones, including water, food, medical supplies, and shelter.
Netanyahu has also agreed to keep the Kerem Shalom crossing open for humanitarian aid despite earlier closures due to security concerns following Hamas attacks.
The situation remains tense as international observers monitor developments closely amid efforts to broker a lasting ceasefire and address regional humanitarian needs.
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