CAIRO/RAFAH/WASHINGTON: Israeli tanks and warplanes bombarded areas of Rafah on Thursday, Palestinian residents said, after President Joe Biden said the United States would withhold weapons from Israel if its forces mount a major invasion of the southern Gaza city.
A senior Israeli official said that the latest round of indirect negotiations in Cairo to halt hostilities had ended and Israel would proceed with its operation in Rafah and other parts of the Gaza Strip as planned.
Israel has submitted to mediators its reservations about a Hamas proposal for a hostage release deal and the Israeli delegation was returning from the Egyptian capital, the official added.
In Gaza, Palestinian militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad said their fighters fired anti-tank rockets and mortars at Israeli tanks massed on the eastern outskirts of the city.
An Israeli attack on a mosque in Rafah’s eastern Brazil neighborhood killed three and wounded several. Rafah remains a key area not yet taken by Israeli ground forces.
Despite the setback in Israel ceasefire talks, diplomatic channels remain active in efforts to de-escalate tensions. International mediators engage in shuttle diplomacy to reconcile differences. Yet, achieving a lasting ceasefire demands political will and concessions. Civilians endure the violence, underscoring the need for swift resolution.
As the conflict persists, the urgency of Israel ceasefire talks becomes increasingly apparent. Calls for an immediate ceasefire intensify, urging both sides to return to negotiations. However, achieving lasting peace necessitates addressing underlying grievances and fostering genuine dialogue.
Consequently, as the situation evolves, concerted efforts are needed to prevent further loss of life and a peaceful resolution.
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