Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the capture of the Rafah crossing is an “important step” towards “dismantling Hamas”.
Netanyahu added military pressure on Hamas is a necessary condition for “the return of our captives”.
The proposal Hamas agreed to on a ceasefire “falls far short of Israel’s essential demands”, the beleaguered Israeli leader said.
The involvement of both the Americans and Egyptians has made the conflict deeply personal, leading to significant pressure on Israel and Hamas. While Hamas seeks a complete end to the war, Israel is adamant that the conflict is not yet over.
For Benjamin Netanyahu, the situation in Rafah holds immense political significance. Entering Rafah could allow him to claim victory, which is crucial for his political survival. On the other hand, avoiding Rafah could deprive him of this opportunity, leading many to believe that he is not interested in a ceasefire agreement.
Despite American pressure, the negotiations are intricate and extend beyond the immediate Gaza situation. They involve broader regional geopolitical considerations and future plans linked to developments in Cairo. The outcome remains uncertain, and the negotiations are complex.
Al Jazeera’s Stefanie Dekker joins us now from the Jordanian capital, Amman.
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