IDF takes control of Gaza side of Rafah crossing, halting aid: Israel-Gaza update | World News

Israel has rejected a ceasefire proposal accepted by Hamas and has announced it is moving forward with an assault on the city of Rafah in southern Gaza, where over a million Palestinians are seeking shelter. The Israeli military stated that they were conducting “targeted strikes” against Hamas in the eastern part of the city, which is the group’s final stronghold in Gaza.

Following the announcement, Israeli tanks entered Rafah and advanced to within 200 meters of its border with Egypt. The operation, according to an Egyptian official, seemed to be limited in scope. There was hope for a truce breakthrough after Hamas indicated that they had accepted a ceasefire proposal put forward by Qatari and Egyptian mediators. This news led to celebrations on the streets of Gaza. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that the truce proposal did not meet their demands.

Despite the rejection, Israel has agreed to send a delegation to meet with negotiators in an attempt to reach an agreement. Qatar’s foreign ministry announced that their delegation would continue indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas in Cairo. Thousands of Israelis have protested across the country, urging for an immediate agreement.

The situation in Rafah remains tense, with Israeli airstrikes killing at least five people, including a child and a woman. The UN has warned that the enclave is on the brink of famine, and the death toll in the conflict continues to rise. US President Joe Biden has expressed concerns about an invasion of Rafah, while UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on both Israel and Hamas to make additional efforts to reach an agreement.