Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected Hamas’ request to end the war in Gaza and reach a ceasefire agreement. Netanyahu stated that Israel cannot accept the conditions proposed by Hamas, as it would result in a resurgence of Hamas military activities and a threat to Israeli citizens. He emphasized that capitulating to Hamas’ demands would be a significant defeat for Israel.
In response, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh expressed a willingness to reach a comprehensive ceasefire to end Israeli aggression, ensure Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza, and secure the release of Palestinian prisoners. However, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that Israel has evidence indicating that Hamas is not interested in a hostage deal, prompting the army to prepare for an offensive in Rafah, southern Gaza, in the near future.
French President Emmanuel Macron encouraged Netanyahu to continue negotiations with Hamas for a ceasefire and hostage release. Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in France for a state visit. Hezbollah retaliated against Israel for an attack in southern Lebanon by launching rockets into northern Israel, resulting in a significant barrage.
The IDF closed the main humanitarian aid crossing point to Gaza, Kerem Shalom, due to rocket fire from the area. The Israeli army reported that dozens of rockets were launched by Hezbollah in northern Israel, with some intercepted. Currently, there are no reports of injuries from the attack. This escalation in violence marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and its adversaries.