Intense fighting in Rafah on the verge of conclusion, according to Netanyahu.
In a shift of tactics, Israel moves its last Hamas units from Rafah, situated on the boundary with Egypt, amidst global condemnation for continuous attacks on the city.
Following the completion of the offensive, Netanyahu shares plans to redeploy a portion of forces towards the north. This strategic move is aimed at bolstering defense and facilitating the return of displaced residents from the area.
Netanyahu refuses to entertain any peace deal that signals an end to the conflict in Gaza. He, however, is amenable to a "conditional agreement" that consists of the release of captives from Gaza. The Israeli prime minister asserted, "Our objective is to rescue the captives and eradicate the Hamas rule in Gaza."
American diplomats have voiced reservations regarding Israel's objective to annihilate Hamas. Similarly, Israeli Army spokesperson Daniel Hagari has raised questions about the feasibility of eradicating Hamas and described it as an "ideology" that cannot be "eradicated" on Wednesday.
