Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defies outside pleas to reconsider advancing troops on the Gazan city of Rafah, insisting on a ground assault despite warnings from other world leaders. French President Emmanuel Macron, along with the prime ministers of Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, expressed grave concern over the potential humanitarian disaster that could result from a military operation in Rafah. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock warned of the plight of civilians in Rafah who have nowhere to go.
The health ministry in the Hamas-run Palestinian territory reports that at least 28,576 people, mostly women and children, have been killed as a result of Israel’s offensive in Gaza. The conflict stems from a surprise attack by Hamas-led gunmen on Israeli territory that resulted in the deaths of at least 1,200 people and the seizure of 253 hostages.
The article also discusses the impact of the conflict on civilians in Rafah, the role of other world leaders in trying to dissuade Israel from advancing on the city, and the implications for ongoing peace negotiations.
As always, the situation remains delicate and evolving.