WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden again urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against launching an offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah as Israel on Monday appeared to be moving closer to a major military operation to root out Hamas militants.
But soon after Israel announced that it was ordering about 100,000 Palestinians to begin evacuating from Rafah, Hamas said in a statement it has accepted an Egyptian-Qatari proposal for a cease-fire to halt the seven-month-long war with Israel in Gaza.
Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said Israel will continue its operations in Gaza as officials deliberate the cease-fire proposal approved by Hamas. And the Israeli War Cabinet voted unanimously to approve a Rafah military operation but will continue cease-fire efforts.
The Israeli military also said it was conducting “targeted strikes” against Hamas in eastern Rafah. The nature of the strikes was not immediately known, but the move appeared aimed at keeping the pressure on as talks continue.
Xi Extends Condolences over Disastrous Heavy Rains in Rwanda
Spring festival earnings give film market shot in the arm
Role of finance in industrial upgrade gets experts' attention
Remains of Li Keqiang Cremated in Beijing
Scenery of azalea blossoms in Zhalantun City, N China
China's securities regulator tightens delisting regulation
Xiong'an eyes hub of innovation, startups
Xi Sends Congratulatory Letter to Rehabilitation International Centennial Celebration
Partnerships urged to bolster content industry in Asia
Xi Sends Congratulations to 32nd Arab League Summit
Role of finance in industrial upgrade gets experts' attention