Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has affirmed that Israel will proceed with its planned invasion of Rafah in the Gaza Strip, irrespective of any ongoing negotiations with Hamas regarding a cease-fire. This decision underscores Israel's commitment to achieving its strategic objectives, including the release of hostages currently held by Hamas, regardless of external pressures or proposed agreements.
Netanyahu's stance comes amid mixed reactions to a cease-fire proposal that, according to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, is "most generous." Critics within Israel argue that this proposal, which would see the release of only a fraction of the hostages in exchange for freeing numerous Palestinian prisoners, effectively capitulates to Hamas by allowing them to maintain a presence in Gaza.
Prime Minister Netanyahu today:
— Eylon Levy (@EylonALevy) April 30, 2024
“The idea we might end the war before achieving all its goals is out of the question. We’ll enter Rafah and eliminate Hamas’ battalions there, with or without a deal, to achieve total victory.”
During a recent meeting with families of the hostages, Netanyahu reiterated his government's resolve. "The idea that we will halt the war before achieving all of its goals is out of the question," he declared, indicating that military operations aimed at dismantling Hamas' capabilities in Rafah will proceed with or without a deal.
This position has faced international scrutiny. U.S. President Joe Biden has indicated that an Israeli invasion of Rafah could cross a "red line," while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, though stopping short of calling it a red line for the EU, described such an attack as "completely unacceptable."
Prime Minister Netanyahu:
— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) April 30, 2024
"The idea that we will halt the war before achieving all of its goals is out of the question. We will enter Rafah and we will eliminate the Hamas battalions there – with or without a deal, in order to achieve the total victory." pic.twitter.com/1d7SCYWJIP
Domestically, the debate over the hostage deal has revealed significant divisions within the Israeli cabinet. The absence of Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich from a recent cabinet meeting highlights the internal conflicts, particularly among members of the far-right factions who oppose any compromise that might halt or scale back military operations. These divisions underscore the complexity of the situation, with key figures like National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir also publicly rejecting the cease-fire proposal, viewing it as a threat to the government's stability.
Live update: Smotrich skips cabinet meeting to huddle with party instead https://t.co/zoVPwpwsWu
— ToI ALERTS (@TOIAlerts) April 30, 2024
As Netanyahu and his government navigate these turbulent waters, both domestic and international eyes remain keenly focused on Israel's next moves in this ongoing conflict, which continues to draw widespread attention and debate.
