Israeli Prime Minister Announces Continuation of Rafah Offensive

Netanyahu's Announcement

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Wednesday that the Rafah offensive, which has received criticism from several Western allies including the US, is projected to continue for "weeks", rather than months or years. This statement appears to be an attempt by Netanyahu to quell the wave of disapproval from the West, particularly Europe, as an estimated 500,000 Palestinians have been displaced from Rafah. This announcement coincided with a call from the European Union for an immediate halt to the Rafah operation.

EU's Warning

The EU's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, cautioned that if Netanyahu does not change course, it could severely strain relations between the EU and Israel. Borrell stated, "Should Israel continue its military operation in Rafah, it would inevitably put a heavy strain on the EU’s relationship with Israel." The EU has urged Israel to cease its military operation in Rafah immediately, warning that the military actions are disrupting humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza and causing further displacement, famine, and human suffering.

Israeli Army's First Casualty

The Israeli army has officially reported its first casualty from the Rafah ground operation. Sgt. Ira Yair Gispan, a 19-year-old soldier from Petah Tikva, was killed during fighting in the southern Gaza Strip. Gispan's death brings the total number of Israeli troops killed in the ground offensive against Hamas in Gaza and border operations to 273.

Netanyahu Government's Response

The Netanyahu government has attempted to deflect criticism by describing the operation as "limited" in scope, focusing only on specific areas of the city and warning civilians to evacuate. However, the EU remains unsatisfied. The EU has reiterated that while it recognizes Israel's right to self-defense, Israel must adhere to International Humanitarian Law and ensure civilian safety. The EU has also urged Israel to avoid worsening the already severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza and to reopen the Rafah crossing point.

Latest Developments

According to Al Jazeera, the latest developments include reports of an Israeli attack on an internet access point in central Gaza City, resulting in many feared casualties. Intense gun battles are ongoing in northern Gaza’s Jabalia and southern Rafah as Israeli military incursions against Palestinian armed groups intensify. At least 82 Palestinians were killed in the past 24 hours, marking the highest single-day death toll in several weeks, during relentless Israeli air attacks. More than 450,000 Palestinians have fled Rafah city, with another 100,000 evacuating the north as Israel’s military launches new attacks. The revised death toll in Israel from Hamas’s October 7 attacks stands at 1,139, with dozens of people still held captive.

Impact of International Statements

Despite the statements from the EU and US, there has been little tangible impact beyond a verbal exchange of criticisms. While US President Biden has threatened to withhold offensive weapons, he has also unveiled $1 billion in new defense aid for Israel this week. This move is unlikely to deter Israel's Rafah offensive against Hamas. Israel's defense chief announced on Wednesday that relations with the US remain "strong and stable".

Final Thoughts

This situation raises important questions about the balance between national security and humanitarian concerns. What are your thoughts on the ongoing conflict and the international response? Do you think the measures taken by Israel are justified, or should there be more emphasis on protecting civilian lives? Share your thoughts with your friends and engage in this important discussion. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.