The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have presented a plan to the War Cabinet to evacuate Palestinian civilians from Rafah and destroy Hamas battalions in the area. The cabinet has also approved a plan to provide humanitarian assistance to the Gaza Strip. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the importance of the Rafah operation in ensuring an IDF victory over Hamas. He stated that the intense phase of the fighting is weeks away from completion, not months, indicating that the Israel-Hamas war could be wrapped up this spring.
Netanyahu defended the pending operation, which has drawn worldwide condemnation even before it has begun. There is concern for the fate of over 1.3 million Palestinians in the area, many of whom fled there to escape IDF bombing in the north of Gaza. However, a deal for the release of the remaining hostages seized by Hamas could delay the Rafah operation. Netanyahu confirmed that if a deal is reached, the operation will be delayed somewhat, but it will still happen. He stressed that total victory is their goal and is within reach.
Negotiations for a deal have been ongoing, with Israel expressing cautious optimism about the possibility of an agreement before the start of Ramadan. The release of Palestinian security prisoners, including terrorists with “blood on their hands,” is expected to be part of the deal. Israel has asked for a list of hostages who are still alive as a trust-building measure. Netanyahu has also proposed exiling the terrorists responsible for killing Israelis to Qatar.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has voiced opposition to making a deal with Hamas, stating that it makes no sense to agree to larger demands and a longer truce. He believes that due to Israel’s military success in Gaza, they should be looking at lower terms.
US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan confirmed that Israel, Egypt, and Qatar had come to an understanding in Paris about the basic contours of a hostage deal for a temporary ceasefire. Indirect discussions between Qatar, Egypt, and Hamas will take place to reach a final agreement.
Regarding the Rafah operation, Sullivan emphasized the importance of having a clear and executable plan to protect Palestinian civilians. He stated that the US will only support the operation if such a plan is in place. Netanyahu defended Israel’s efforts to preserve civilian life during the military operation, stating that they have gone to extraordinary lengths to warn civilians and provide them with information on how to stay safe.
Netanyahu argued that Israel has been forced into this war by a cynical enemy that targets civilians and hides behind them. He compared the situation to what America would do if it suffered a similar attack, stating that they would respond with a military force. He believes that achieving total victory is necessary for a secure future for Israel, a better future for Gaza, and a setback for the Iran terror axis.
In conclusion, the IDF has presented a plan to evacuate Palestinian civilians from Rafah and destroy Hamas battalions in the area. The possibility of a deal for the release of hostages could delay the operation. Israel is optimistic about reaching an agreement before Ramadan. The US has emphasized the importance of protecting Palestinian civilians in any military operation. Netanyahu defended Israel’s actions, stating that they have done more than any other nation to preserve civilian life. He believes that achieving total victory is necessary for the security of Israel and the region.