International pressure is mounting on Israel to refrain from launching an anticipated assault on the last refuge for displaced Palestinians in southern Gaza.
Truce talks in Cairo concluded without a clear resolution on Tuesday, raising concerns among the densely populated Rafah residents that an Israeli attack could be imminent.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu mentioned the absence of a new offer from Hamas in the hostage deal negotiations, stating that Israel won’t accept the current demands.
Tensions escalated along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon, with reports of casualties on both sides. The Israeli military aims to target Hamas in Rafah but has not provided details on plans for evacuating civilians.
The lack of an immediate breakthrough in talks has left many fearing the potential consequences.
French President Emmanuel Macron, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, and World Health Organization representative Richard Peeperkorn expressed concerns about the humanitarian impact and regional escalation. Israel claims to take steps to minimize civilian casualties, while Hamas denies hiding among civilians.
Overnight shelling occurred in Rafah and Khan Younis, with Israeli forces continuing to isolate hospitals. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with casualties increasing, essential supplies dwindling, and diseases spreading.
Diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent further conflict escalation and address the hostage situation.
In border tensions, clashes occurred between Israel and Hezbollah, and Iran-aligned Houthi forces in Yemen targeted international shipping in the Red Sea.
The United States and Britain retaliated with strikes on Houthi targets. Diplomatic efforts continue, with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan expressing readiness to cooperate with Egypt in rebuilding Gaza after the war.
Talks in Cairo are ongoing, with White House spokesman John Kirby emphasizing their constructive nature.