Netanyahu Defies Global Pleas, Continues Gaza Military Campaign

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue military operations in Gaza, ignoring international calls for restraint as the region faces a looming famine and cease-fire discussions are set to resume. In a statement during a weekly cabinet meeting, Netanyahu announced plans to move into Rafah, currently a refuge for over 1 million displaced Palestinians due to the ongoing conflict, now in its sixth month. This decision has faced criticism from global allies, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who emphasized the necessity of a long-lasting cease-fire and expressed concerns over the potential impact on regional peace efforts.

Netanyahu, referencing the tragic events of October 7 when Hamas killed more than 1,200 Israelis, most of them civilians, and took 253 hostages, defended Israel’s right to self-defense. Despite assurances of a civilian evacuation plan from Rafah, skepticism remains among aid agencies and allies. Meanwhile, truce talks in Qatar see the involvement of Israel’s Mossad head, with Hamas proposing a cease-fire that includes an exchange of prisoners. Though Netanyahu has deemed Hamas’ demands unrealistic, there is cautious optimism about reaching an agreement. Amid these developments, aid deliveries have reached northern Gaza, signaling a critical intervention in a dire humanitarian crisis.