JERUSALEM, Israel – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday that a date has been set to invade Rafah, Hamas’ last stronghold.
The prime minister insists Israel won’t accept a ceasefire deal that prevents such an invasion and the achievement of total victory over Hamas.
He made the announcement Monday, declaring, “We are working all the time to achieve our goals – primarily the release of all our hostages and achieving a complete victory over Hamas. This victory requires entry into Rafah and the elimination of the terrorist battalions there. It will happen – there is a date.”
The U.S. has also reportedly proposed a new ceasefire deal. It would seek a six-week halt in the fighting, exchange 40 of the Israeli hostages held by Hamas for 900 Palestinians imprisoned in Israel, including some who have murdered Israelis.
Hamas is expected to this latest proposal by Tuesday night. If they agree, the truce could begin as soon as Wednesday.
The Biden administration has indicated it wants to replace Netanyahu and has hinted it will reduce U.S. support if Israel invades Rafah and doesn’t agree to a ceasefire deal with Hamas.
Monday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken held high-level talks in Washington with Yair
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