Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is undergoing surgery for a hernia and has vowed to invade Rafah despite pressure from Ramadan and Washington. Netanyahu approved the IDF’s operational plan for the operation, stating that the military is prepared for the evacuation of civilians and to provide humanitarian assistance. He emphasized the importance of entering Rafah and eliminating Hamas battalions, stating that there is no victory without doing so. Netanyahu has been accused of delaying the release of hostages in Gaza, but he refuted these claims, stating that he is doing everything possible to bring the hostages home.
The World Health Organization has been silent on Hamas’ use of a Gaza hospital as a headquarters for terror activities. Netanyahu has stated that Israel has been flexible in negotiations while Hamas has become more hardened. He stressed the need for calm and level-headed negotiations to ensure the safe return of hostages. Despite dealing with a hernia, Netanyahu has continued to have a full schedule and has remained actively involved in Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas. He has faced criticism over his handling of the war and the hostage situation, but the country remains largely in favor of his leadership.
Thousands of Israelis gathered outside the parliament building in Jerusalem to protest against the government and urge for a cease-fire deal to free hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Roughly half of the hostages were released during a previous cease-fire, but the remaining hostages have yet to be returned. Talks have resumed, yet there is little expectation of a breakthrough. Netanyahu has emphasized that a military ground offensive in Rafah is necessary for victory, and he believes it is imperative to eliminate Hamas presence in the area. The conflict in Gaza has resulted in a high number of casualties, with the Hamas-run Health Ministry reporting over 32,000 Palestinians killed since the start of the war.
The Ministry’s count does not distinguish between civilians and militants, but women and children are said to make up a significant portion of the casualties. Israel disputes these figures, stating that more than one-third of the dead are militants and blaming Hamas for civilian casualties due to their presence in residential areas. The ongoing conflict has deepened divisions within Israeli society, with a significant anti-government demonstration held in Jerusalem. Calls for early elections and a resolution to the hostage situation echo throughout the protests. Netanyahu’s leadership during the conflict has come under scrutiny, but he remains determined to ensure the safety and security of Israel in the face of ongoing hostilities and challenges in the region.
