Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, has stated that plans for a massive attack on the Gazan city of Rafah will be suspended once an agreement is reached with Hamas to release the hostages it holds. In an interview with Channel 12 of Israeli television, Katz emphasized the importance of releasing the hostages and confirmed that the operation would be suspended if an agreement is reached.
Official Israeli sources have reported that a new offer has been presented to Hamas as a final opportunity to accept a ceasefire. Otherwise, the Israeli Army will launch a major offensive on the city of Rafah. Talks with Hamas, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, have shown progress, but the seriousness of the situation is emphasized by Israeli officials.
There is disagreement within the Israeli war cabinet on this issue. While some ministers threaten to resign if the Rafah offensive is canceled, others emphasize the importance of reaching an agreement with Hamas. The Israeli Army believes that the leader of Hamas in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, is hiding in Rafah, making it a crucial target for the operation.
Overall, the situation remains tense as negotiations continue between Israel and Hamas. The release of hostages is a key issue, and the outcome of these talks will determine whether a major offensive on Rafah will be launched.