Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed on Thursday that Israel would press forward with its offensive against Hamas, extending its reach to the southern Gaza city of Rafah.
Despite increasing international pressure to cease military actions, Netanyahu emphasized the need for solidarity and resistance against attempts to halt the ongoing conflict.
The offensive was sparked by a Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, resulting in casualties and abductions according to Israeli reports.
The subsequent Israeli offensive in Gaza, lasting weeks, has led to a significant loss of life, drawing widespread condemnation globally.
Addressing a graduation ceremony at an Israeli army officer training school, Netanyahu expressed determination in pushing back against what he called a “calculated attempt” to attribute Hamas’ crimes to Israel.
He stated that Israel would operate throughout Gaza, including Rafah, which he referred to as the last Hamas stronghold.
Rafah, located on the southernmost fringe of the Gaza enclave near the Egyptian border, is estimated to be home to approximately 1.5 million people.
Many of them have sought refuge in the city after fleeing their homes further north to escape the military actions initiated by Israel.
Netanyahu emphasized that any calls to refrain from acting in Rafah were tantamount to asking Israel to surrender in the ongoing conflict, a scenario he adamantly rejected.
The situation remains tense as Israel persists in its offensive operations, defying international appeals for a ceasefire.
