International Leaders React to Israel's Operations in Rafah

As Israel persists in its intensive operation in Rafah, Western leaders are being called upon to urge Israel to halt its activities to allow room for negotiation with Hamas. It has been noted that Hamas, facing a dwindling number of living hostages to trade, may be using hostage negotiations as a stalling tactic in the midst of the conflict in Rafah. The situation has escalated to the point where Israel is conducting combing operations in the city with the objective of locating and dismantling the remaining Hamas battalions and their associated infrastructure.

Despite the initial jubilation among Palestinians following news of a ceasefire, the joy was short-lived as Israel confirmed its rejection of the proposed agreement. Subsequently, the Israeli Air Force launched an airstrike campaign on Rafah, intensifying the conflict in the region. The rejected ceasefire agreement, which included provisions for the release of Israeli captives categorized by age, gender, and health status, met widespread disappointment among international leaders and spurred protests in Tel Aviv, particularly by families and friends of hostages still in Hamas's captivity.

In response to the escalating situation, US President Joe Biden reached out to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to express his concerns over the ongoing operation in Rafah. Additionally, the United States has announced a review of proposed weapon transfers to Israel, specifically examining transfers that could potentially be used in the conflict in Rafah. This scrutiny has led to a temporary pause in one of the shipments of weapons to Israel as the United States carefully assesses the situation unfolding in Rafah.