Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to initiate an incursion into the southern Gaza city of Rafah, amid escalating ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
The move comes as hundreds of thousands of Palestinians seek refuge in Rafah during the nearly seven-month-long conflict.
Netanyahu’s announcement, made on Tuesday, coincides with the arrival of U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Israel to advance ceasefire discussions. These talks mark one of the most significant rounds of negotiations between Israel and Hamas since the conflict’s inception.
The proposed ceasefire aims to secure the release of hostages, provide relief to the population, and prevent an Israeli offensive into Rafah, thereby averting potential harm to civilians.
Regardless of the ceasefire negotiations, Netanyahu affirmed Israel’s intent to enter Rafah and dismantle Hamas’ military units stationed there. His remarks, seemingly aimed at satisfying nationalist allies, raise questions about their impact on potential agreements with Hamas.
“The idea of halting the conflict before achieving all objectives is unacceptable,” Netanyahu stated, emphasising the pursuit of total victory.
Pressure from hard-line Cabinet members has challenged Netanyahu’s stance on potential ceasefire agreements that might impede Israeli military action in Rafah, deemed by Israel as Hamas’ last stronghold.
Netanyahu assured National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir of Israel’s commitment to enter Rafah and continue military operations.
With a significant portion of Gaza’s population seeking refuge in Rafah, international concern, including from the United States, warns against actions endangering civilians.
Addressing the Tikva Forum, a group advocating for the defeat of Hamas over hostage release, Netanyahu’s approach highlights the complexity of balancing military objectives with humanitarian concerns.
Critics accuse Netanyahu of prioritising political considerations over national interests in his decision-making during the conflict.
Netanyahu’s coalition, comprising ultranationalist and conservative religious parties, faces potential instability should opposing factions withdraw support.
The ongoing ceasefire negotiations, facilitated by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, aim to secure the release of hostages and initiate a temporary halt in hostilities.
However, differences persist regarding the duration of the ceasefire and the eventual withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.
The conflict, ignited by a raid into southern Israel in October, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement.
With casualties surpassing 34,000 Palestinians and the displacement of 80% of Gaza’s population, the humanitarian toll of the conflict continues to mount.
Chioma Kalu
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