Israel offers hostage deal a final opportunity before launching offensive in Rafah | Global News

Israel has issued a stern warning to Egypt, stating that it will give ongoing negotiations for a hostage deal “one last chance” before launching a planned ground offensive on Rafah, located between Gaza and Egypt. The warning comes after Israeli officials and a high-level Egyptian delegation concluded talks on Friday regarding Tel Aviv’s anticipated offensive in Rafah and efforts to secure a hostage agreement with Hamas.

An Israeli official, as quoted by the Times of Israel, stated that the talks with Egypt were productive and that there is a strong intention from Israel to move forward with the offensive in Rafah. The official emphasized that Israel will not tolerate any delays from Hamas, particularly its leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, on the hostage deal.

Meanwhile, Hamas has announced that it is reviewing a new Israeli proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza and a hostage deal. Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya stated that they will respond after completing their evaluation.

Despite international resistance and concerns from Egypt about the consequences of a full-scale Israeli offensive in Rafah, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved the military’s plan for an operation in the area. Netanyahu has emphasized the need to enter Rafah and eliminate terrorist groups, assuring that it will happen on a set date.

Since Hamas’ attack on October 7, Israel has been conducting continuous attacks in Gaza, with Netanyahu vowing to continue the war until victory is achieved. The conflict has resulted in a significant number of casualties and displacements, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting over 34,000 Palestinians killed in the ongoing war.