Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has officially rejected any ceasefire deal with Hamas, escalating tensions in the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu emphasized during a cabinet meeting that conceding to Hamas demands would be a grave defeat for the Israeli state, portraying it as a victory for Hamas, Iran, and other hostile forces.
The severe blockade imposed by Israel on the Gaza Strip has plunged its population of over two million into dire circumstances, with the United Nations warning of looming famine in many areas. Simultaneously, Israel has shown intentions of a military operation in the city of Rafah in Gaza, indicating a potential escalation of hostilities.
The international community, including the United States, expresses concerns over the possibility of significant casualties in such a scenario, as a large number of displaced Palestinians have sought refuge in Rafah due to the ongoing conflict.