Israeli military personnel make progress towards the heart of Rafah.
The military shared that they've increased their actions in Gaza Strip's heart and performed airstrikes, resulting in the death of several terrorists. These individuals were operating near Israeli troops. Further specifics were not shared at the moment. The military had earlier disclosed that in the course of their offensive in Rafah since May, roughly 300 Hamas members were killed.
In response to global rebuke, Israel had started a conflict in Rafah on May 7. This region was housing a million Palestinians fleeing from conflict. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reported that close to a million people have exited the city since then.
The periodic fighting between Israel and Hamas, a terrorist group as per the United States and the European Union, has been continuing for over seven months. Hamas orchestrated a gigantic assault on Israel on October 7, leading to 1189 casualties, as per Israeli estimations. Furthermore, 252 individuals were abducted and transported to Gaza Strip, out of whom 121 are still in custody as per Israeli estimations.
In reaction to this massive attack, Israel had unfolded an extensive military operation in Gaza Strip. As per the last figures from the Health Ministry in Gaza, approximately 36,200 people were killed.
As the ongoing truce talks and the liberation of hostages in Gaza Strip continue, Hamas has solidified its attitude towards the discussions. They're not keen to join the talks until Israel ceases its assault in Gaza Strip. Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh clarified on Friday that the two key demands of the Islamists - a constant truce and a full Israeli disengagement - are non-negotiable.
Israel had granted permission for the negotiations with Hamas regarding a ceasefire in Gaza Strip and hostage release the previous week. For months, Egypt, Qatar, and the United States have been making efforts to facilitate a deal, but without success.
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- The international community, including organizations like the UN, have expressed concern over the escalating situation in the Gaza Strip, with a large number of Palestinian refugees being displaced.
- The AFP reported that the Israeli Army has been heavily deployed in the center of Rafah, as they continue their operations against Hamas, a militant group recognized as such by both the USA and the EU.
- Soldiers from various nations, including the USA, have been providing support to the Israeli Army in their efforts to maintain security in the region.
- Refugees in the Gaza Strip are struggling to cope with the ongoing tension between Israel and Hamas, with many living in fear and uncertainty.
- The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and for both sides to engage in meaningful peace talks to find a long-term solution.
- The Israeli government has rejected calls for a unilateral ceasefire and insists that they will continue their operations against Hamas until they can eliminate the threat they pose to their troops and citizens.
