Israel’s security cabinet approved an expansion of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) operation in Rafah, along with ongoing negotiations with mediators in Egypt to secure a hostage release deal with Hamas. This decision was seen as a response to the Biden administration’s withholding of bombs and artillery from Israel in protest of its actions in Rafah.
The security cabinet, a level above the war cabinet, made this decision in an effort to prevent Hamas from regaining power in Gaza and launching further attacks against Israeli communities. The U.S. has expressed concerns about the humanitarian impact of the expanded operation, but Israel has allowed fuel to enter Gaza for distribution by international aid groups.
Axios.com reported that the cabinet also instructed the negotiation team to continue efforts towards a ceasefire deal and work on a new initiative to achieve a breakthrough. The situation in Rafah remains tense, as Israel navigates its military actions in response to Hamas while also attempting to address humanitarian concerns.
