In a recent interview with Israel’s Channel 14, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the intense phase of the fighting against Hamas in the southern Gaza city of Rafah is nearly over. While the intense phase may be ending, Netanyahu clarified that this does not signal the end of the war entirely, emphasizing the importance of eradicating Hamas from Gaza. Netanyahu expressed his willingness to agree to a partial deal that could facilitate the return of some hostages still held in Gaza, but underscored that the primary goal remains to bring back all 120 hostages, both living and deceased. The US has played a significant role in the conflict, with Netanyahu claiming a dramatic drop in US weapons supply, a claim that has been met with skepticism from US officials. Meanwhile, tensions are also escalating on Israel’s northern border with Lebanon, where Hezbollah poses a significant military threat. At the same time, Palestinian civilians in Gaza continue to face dire humanitarian conditions, with aid efforts facing numerous challenges. The situation remains complex and volatile, with multiple stakeholders involved in the region’s ongoing conflicts.
