International pressure is mounting on Israel as plans for an invasion of Gaza’s southern city of Rafah and a ceasefire agreement with Hamas come to a head. US President Joe Biden reiterated his position against the invasion and stressed the need for sustained and enhanced humanitarian aid to Gaza during a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This call came amid preparations for US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s return to the Middle East. Additionally, a senior official from Qatar called on Israel and Hamas to show more commitment and seriousness in negotiations, while the EU’s foreign policy chief suggested that the only solution to the conflict was for the land to be shared.
An Israeli delegation is expected to travel to Egypt for discussions on the latest proposals, and a senior Hamas official confirmed that a delegation from the militant group would also be heading to Cairo. Qatar expressed disappointment in Hamas and Israel for making decisions based on political interests rather than the welfare of civilians, leading to an effective halt in negotiations. An Egyptian official indicated that Israeli officials are open to discussing a permanent ceasefire in Gaza as part of a second phase of a deal, with conditions such as the release of civilian and sick hostages and the negotiation of the release of soldiers and senior Palestinian prisoners. The pressure for a ceasefire is also aimed at preventing an Israeli attack on Rafah, which has raised global alarm.
The planned Israeli military incursion into Rafah, where a significant portion of Gaza’s population is seeking shelter, has raised concerns globally. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas warned of an impending invasion during a session of the World Economic Forum, stating that even a small strike could force all Palestinians to leave Palestine. However, White House national security spokesman John Kirby stated that Israel had assured the US that they would not enter Rafah until concerns and perspectives were shared, indicating ongoing diplomatic efforts. Israel’s troop buildup near Rafah is seen as a pressure tactic in negotiations, as the country aims to destroy Hamas’ military and governing capabilities in the region.
A letter written by Biden and 17 other world leaders called on Hamas to release their citizens immediately, with Hamas releasing videos of hostages in recent days in an apparent push for concessions from Israel. Negotiations earlier in the month focused on a six-week ceasefire proposal and the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The US government has warned that future support for Israel in the conflict depends on the protection of civilians and aid workers. Israel’s planned invasion of Rafah has drawn international concern, with calls for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza and a sustainable ceasefire agreement.
The US government has made efforts to pressure Israel to prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians in Gaza during the conflict with Hamas. Biden’s repeated calls with Netanyahu stress the importance of delivering humanitarian aid and implementing steps to protect civilians, reflecting the US’s opposition to the planned invasion of Rafah. The EU’s foreign policy chief echoed the sentiment that the conflict could only be resolved through shared land, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution between Israel and Hamas. As negotiations continue in Egypt and pressure mounts for a ceasefire, the international community is closely observing developments and urging a swift and peaceful resolution to the conflict in Gaza.
