Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected American calls to halt a planned ground invasion of Rafah during US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s latest visit, Associated Press reports.
Israel insists on taking military action in Rafah, which it sees as the last Hamas stronghold, despite concerns about civilian casualties. Blinken emphasized opposition to a major ground operation and warned of potential consequences for Israel’s international standing. However, Netanyahu remained firm in his stance, rejecting the American appeal, indicating that Israel is prepared to proceed with or without US support.
Efforts to broker a cease-fire face challenges, with disagreements over hostages, prisoner releases, and humanitarian aid delivery. A recent US-sponsored UN resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire was vetoed by Russia and China.
