Israel continues Rafah assault, open to talks
Israel’s military operation in Rafah continues as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vows to pressure Hamas to release hostages. Despite Hamas agreeing to a ceasefire proposed by Qatar and Egypt, Israel remains skeptical, though it is willing to send negotiators. Intense airstrikes were reported by AFP in Rafah on Monday evening, with at least five people later declared killed. Israeli military confirmed targeted strikes on Hamas. Over a million people are in Rafah, but Israel has proceeded with an evacuation of around 100,000 Palestinians anticipating an offensive. U.S. President Joe Biden has told Netanyahu that the U.S. opposes ground operations in Rafah, stressing the need to protect civilians. Israel claims 132 hostages remain in Gaza, with nearly 100 potentially alive, following a Hamas attack last October.