Israel has escalated its ground operations in the southern Gaza Strip, with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) advancing deeper into Rafah. The aim is to extend a buffer zone along the enclave’s borders, following a significant increase in military action over the weekend.
The IDF reported that its forces have moved into the al-Jenine neighborhood of Rafah, continuing their mission to create a security zone along Gaza’s border. The military has stated that troops are dismantling Hamas infrastructure across the region, destroying key targets including weapons depots, rocket launchers, and military outposts. These strikes have also led to the deaths of several Hamas fighters.
Meanwhile, on Friday, Hamas announced it had accepted a ceasefire proposal put forward by mediators Qatar and Egypt. Israel, however, responded with its own counter-proposal, coordinated with the United States. Egypt had earlier suggested a plan to revive the ceasefire talks after Israel resumed military operations, following the termination of its previous ceasefire agreement.
An Egyptian official revealed details of the proposal, which included Hamas agreeing to release five hostages, including an American-Israeli, in exchange for Israel permitting aid into Gaza, a pause in fighting, and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s office did not disclose specifics about Israel’s counter-proposal, but it followed consultations held by Benjamin Netanyahu. Israel restarted its offensive nearly two weeks ago after a surprise wave of airstrikes that ended the ceasefire, resulting in hundreds of casualties. Netanyahu has vowed to continue the military campaign until Hamas releases the 59 hostages it still holds.
Hamas, for its part, has stated that it will only release the remaining captives in return for Palestinian prisoners, a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and a lasting ceasefire to end the conflict that has persisted for over 15 months.
