Netanyahu Declares Intent to Invade Rafah Amid Ceasefire Uncertainty
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted on Tuesday that Israel intends to enter Rafah, situated in the southern Gaza Strip, regardless of Hamas's acceptance of the latest ceasefire proposal, as reported by POLITICO.
"The notion that we would cease the conflict before achieving all our objectives is untenable," Netanyahu declared during a meeting with representatives of families whose members are being held hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
"We will penetrate Rafah and dismantle the Hamas battalions stationed there - with or without an agreement, in pursuit of complete victory," he added. The families implored Netanyahu to "resist international pressure" to end the conflict in Gaza, according to a statement released by the prime minister's office. President Joe Biden has stated that an invasion of Rafah would constitute a "red line," although Netanyahu has vowed to defy this.
Israel has consistently conducted airstrikes on the city since the beginning of the conflict and has threatened to deploy troops, viewing Rafah as Hamas's final stronghold. Overnight from Monday to Tuesday, Israeli airstrikes have claimed the lives of at least 22 individuals, including six women and five children, as reported by Palestinian health officials.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated during a Monday election debate co-organized by POLITICO that it would be "completely unacceptable" for Israel to attack the Palestinian city, but refrained from designating it a "red line" that would trigger EU sanctions against Israel.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
