Four Israeli soldiers were killed and twelve injured, three critically, in a Hamas rocket attack on the Kerem Shalom border crossing with Gaza, the Israeli military announced.
The military wing of Hamas claimed responsibility for launching rockets at the military site near the crossing, prompting the Israeli forces to shut it down.
The Israeli military reported that ten rockets were fired towards the Kerem Shalom area, originating from the nearby Rafah area.
In response to the attack, the Israeli government announced a halt to the passage of humanitarian aid through Kerem Shalom to Gaza, impacting the already dire humanitarian situation in the region.
Kerem Shalom has become the main gateway for critically needed humanitarian supplies entering Gaza.
This incident exacerbates the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, marked by severe shortages of food, medicine, and other essential supplies.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel is prepared to halt military operations in Gaza if hostages held by militant groups are released, according to Reuters.
Netanyahu emphasized that Israel would not accept conditions that amount to surrender and would continue its military efforts until its objectives were met.
He further clarified that Israel could not agree to the demands of Hamas to end the war and withdraw forces from Gaza.
This statement comes amid ongoing conflict in the region, which has seen significant international attention and calls for de-escalation. The Israeli leader’s remarks indicate a potential shift towards negotiations, contingent on the safe return of hostages.
The situation remains tense as the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that could lead to a cessation of hostilities and address the humanitarian concerns in Gaza.
