Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that the intense phase of Israel’s conflict with Hamas is drawing to a close, with a focus now shifting towards the northern border with Lebanon. Despite this, Netanyahu has firmly rejected the idea of a permanent ceasefire, maintaining that military operations will continue until Hamas is fully dismantled. This stance has been met with international criticism, particularly from the Biden administration, which has been advocating for a comprehensive peace agreement. The ongoing conflict has led to a staggering number of casualties, with the Palestinian Ministry of Health reporting over 37,000 deaths and nearly 87,000 injuries since the start of the Israeli attacks on Gaza in October 2023. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with civilians facing severe shortages of food, medicine, and access to basic necessities. Netanyahu’s recent statements have also raised concerns about the potential for a broader regional conflict, as Israel prepares for heightened military exchanges with Hezbollah. The Israeli army has been conducting targeted operations in the Rafah area, aiming to eliminate Hamas fighters and destroy tunnel entrances. Meanwhile, families of the hostages held by Hamas have expressed frustration with Netanyahu’s approach, fearing that their loved ones will not be released. As the conflict persists, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, with children dying from malnutrition and dehydration, according to UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant is currently in Washington to address diplomatic tensions with the US, ahead of Netanyahu’s scheduled speech to the US Congress on July 24.
Key points
- The intense phase of Israel’s conflict with Hamas in Gaza is nearing its end, with over 37,000 Palestinians killed.
- Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu rejects a permanent ceasefire, aiming to dismantle Hamas and shift military focus to Lebanon.
- International tensions rise as Netanyahu’s stance clashes with Biden administration’s push for peace.
- Humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, with severe shortages and high civilian casualties.
