Hamas Accepts Cease-Fire Proposal as Israel Continues Assault on Gaza City
In a potential glimmer of hope for a pause in the 7-month-old war in Gaza, Hamas has accepted an Egyptian-Qatari cease-fire proposal. However, Israel has stated that the deal does not meet its core demands and has continued its assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah.
The situation in Rafah has escalated, leaving the threat of an all-out Israeli assault looming. Israel recently ordered the evacuation of 100,000 Palestinians from eastern neighborhoods of Rafah, signaling that an invasion was imminent. Despite Hamas accepting the cease-fire proposal, Israeli military conducted targeted strikes in eastern Rafah and sent tanks into the city.
Tragically, Israeli airstrikes in Rafah have resulted in the deaths of at least five people, including a child and a woman. The Israeli War Cabinet has decided to press on with the operation in Rafah, despite international concerns.
U.S. President Joe Biden has expressed his worries to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the potential invasion of Rafah. Israeli leaders have rejected Hamas’ demands for an end to the war and complete withdrawal in exchange for hostages.
Thousands of Israelis have rallied for an immediate agreement, while the U.S. has stated that it does not support the ongoing operation in Rafah. Aid agencies have warned of more civilian deaths in the offensive and the potential to disrupt humanitarian aid operations.
As the situation in Rafah deteriorates, Palestinians have been ordered to evacuate to a makeshift camp called Muwasi. The war in Gaza was sparked by a raid into southern Israel by Palestinian militants, resulting in numerous casualties and hostages being taken.
The future remains uncertain as the conflict in Gaza continues to escalate, with both sides showing no signs of backing down.
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