Gaza Strip witnessed ongoing bombardment on Monday, following Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement that the “intense” phase of fighting is nearing its end, particularly in Rafah in the southern part of the territory, while emphasizing the continuation of the war against Hamas.
In response to Netanyahu’s statements, Hamas asserted that any agreement must “include a permanent ceasefire and complete Israeli withdrawal” from Gaza, conditions that Israel has consistently rejected.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu reaffirmed in the Knesset his commitment to the Israeli proposal approved by U.S. President Joe Biden, stressing that the war will not end until Hamas is eliminated and residents of the south and north can safely return to their homes.
On the humanitarian front, Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, reported that looting and smuggling are “widespread” and “prevent” the delivery of aid desperately needed by the population. The World Health Organization also indicated that over a million people are constantly moving across the Gaza Strip in search of shelter, emphasizing that “no place is safe” in the territory.
Amid these developments, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant arrived in Washington for talks he described as “crucial” for the future of the war, amidst tensions in relations between Netanyahu and the United States due to Israeli criticism over delays in American weapons deliveries.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with widespread displacement and severe shortages of essential supplies.