Netanyahu's Approval of Rafah Attack Plans Amid Gaza Aid Ship Arrival
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has given the green light for plans to launch an attack on Rafah, the southernmost city in Gaza, as a ship carrying aid arrived off the Gaza coast. The decision, made after a meeting of Israel's war cabinet to discuss a new proposal from Hamas for a ceasefire, is seen as a potential negotiating tactic to put pressure on Hamas during talks. The attack on Rafah, a city where more than a million displaced people have sought shelter, is likely to exacerbate the already acute humanitarian crisis across Gaza.
Hamas has proposed a ceasefire deal that includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, a proposal that Netanyahu's office described as "unrealistic." Despite this, an Israeli delegation is set to discuss Israel's position on a potential agreement with Qatar, a key mediator in the negotiations. Observers believe that the announcement of plans to attack Rafah may be intended to force concessions from Hamas during the negotiations.
The potential attack on Rafah has raised concerns about civilian casualties and the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where the UN has warned of famine. The conflict has displaced most of the territory's 2.3 million people, and aid distribution has been marred by deadly incidents, including reports of Israeli fire causing casualties among those waiting to receive aid.
Netanyahu's commitment to the Rafah attack has drawn international attention, with German Foreign Affairs Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasizing the need for a humanitarian truce to prevent further loss of life and to secure the release of hostages. President Joe Biden has also expressed concerns, calling an attack on Rafah a "red line" if undertaken without sufficient precautions to protect civilians.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has prompted some countries to diversify aid supply routes, including by air and sea, as land access to Gaza via Jordan, Israel, and Egypt remains limited. Despite the challenges, mediators including Qatar, Egypt, and the US are working to conclude a ceasefire deal before Ramadan, the Muslim holy month.
News Agencies