Netanyahu Orders Attack on Gaza Following Failed Ceasefire Hopes
Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has ordered the Israeli army to prepare for an attack on Rafah and the central camps in Gaza. In a statement to the press, Netanyahu emphasized that this victory against Hamas will have implications for the entire Middle East.
Addressing the issue of managing Gaza after the attacks have ceased, Netanyahu stated that the Israeli army and security forces will ensure that Gaza is demilitarized indefinitely once Hamas is completely eliminated. He also mentioned that the Israeli government has initiated the process to terminate the mission of the United Nations Public Works and Assistance Agency (UNRWA) to the Palestinians in the Near East.
Netanyahu explained that the goal is to end Hamas’s military dominance in Gaza and that there have been no commitments made regarding a mutual prisoner exchange with Hamas. He also mentioned that negotiations are ongoing.
Meanwhile, Hamas Movement Political Bureau Member Osama al Hamdan made a statement on behalf of Hamas, presenting proposals for a ceasefire and prisoner exchange with Israel. He emphasized the need for humanitarian aid, the end of attacks on civilians, and the lifting of the blockade on Gaza.
Hamdan also highlighted that Israel has persistently made statements indicating that it will continue its attacks on Gaza, despite the proposed memorandum of understanding. He stated that Hamas has responded positively to the memorandum of understanding, despite the reactions of Israel.
The proposed ceasefire, which includes guarantors such as Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, Russia, and the UN, will be discussed further in talks held in Cairo by a delegation from Hamas.
The situation between Israel and Hamas remains tense, with both parties making moves towards potentially ending the conflict. Talks and negotiations will likely continue in the coming days as efforts to reach a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement persist.
