Title: Israeli Military Operations in Rafah Put on Hold Amidst International Concern
Israeli forces have reportedly decided not to expand their military operations into Rafah imminently, despite warnings from top officials. US officials have stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plans for a major incursion into Rafah may be put on hold until a ceasefire and hostage release deal are reached by Ramadan.
However, Benny Gantz, Israel’s defense minister, has warned of a potential military operation into Rafah if a deal is not reached soon. Netanyahu, on the other hand, has expressed his intent to send the military into Rafah regardless of any agreements.
US President Joe Biden has called an operation into Rafah a “red line” to prevent further Palestinian deaths. He has also expressed doubts about reaching a temporary ceasefire deal before Ramadan begins.
Despite negotiations for a six-week ceasefire and hostage release ongoing, no breakthrough has been reached yet. The Biden administration has stressed the importance of a humanitarian plan for civilians in Rafah before any military operations take place. UN aid chief has also warned of a potential slaughter if a ground invasion into Rafah occurs.
US officials remain skeptical that civilian safety can be guaranteed in the densely populated Rafah before any military expansion occurs. The White House has insisted on seeing a plan for civilian safety before supporting any offensive into Rafah.
Netanyahu has stated that any operation into Rafah will not last more than two months, but concerns remain about the potential consequences of such a move. International pressure continues to mount to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Rafah.
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