Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared on Thursday that Israel would persist with its offensive against Hamas, extending into the southern Gaza city of Rafah, despite increasing international calls to halt the military operations.
Netanyahu’s stance comes in response to the October 7 attack by Hamas fighters on southern Israel, resulting in 1,200 casualties and the abduction of 253 individuals, according to Israeli figures.
In retaliation, Israel launched an offensive that has led to more than 30,000 estimated deaths in Gaza, as reported by Palestinian health authorities, eliciting widespread global criticism.
Addressing the escalating international pressure, Netanyahu asserted, “There is international pressure, and it’s growing, but particularly when the international pressure rises, we must close ranks, we need to stand together against the attempts to stop the war.”
Rafah, located on the southernmost border with Egypt and estimated to house around 1.5 million people, has become a focal point of the conflict. Many residents sought refuge there after fleeing their homes in the face of Israel’s military campaign.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony for Israeli army officers, Netanyahu emphasized the need to counter a “calculated attempt” to blame Israel for alleged crimes committed by Hamas.
He underscored Israel’s commitment to operate throughout Gaza, including Rafah, which he referred to as the “last Hamas stronghold.”
In a resolute statement, Netanyahu declared, “Whoever tells us not to act in Rafah is telling us to lose the war, and that will not happen.”
Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi
Follow us on:
The EFCC has arrested three suspects for alleged vote buying during the ongoing Edo governorship…
Evacuations of 30,000 people are underway in central Japan as heavy rains threaten severe flooding,…
An employee of California's state fire protection agency, known as Cal Fire, has been arrested…
In Mexico's western Sinaloa state, at least 53 people have been killed and 51 others…
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced the arrest of two suspected political thugs during…
President Bola Tinubu on Saturday rejoiced with his better half, Oluremi Tinubu, on the occasion…