Israel-Gaza Conflict: Netanyahu Disputes Humanitarian Crisis in Rafah as Hundreds of Thousands Flee
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied the existence of a humanitarian crisis in Rafah, Gaza, as hundreds of thousands of people fled due to intense fighting between Israeli forces and Hamas militants.
Hamas expressed their intention to participate in the post-war government decision-making process in Gaza.
The conflict escalated with urban combat in Rafah and renewed clashes in northern and central areas, leading to US concerns that Israel could get bogged down in years of counterinsurgency.
The US is set to provide Israel with a new $1 billion weapons package, despite previous threats from the Biden administration to withhold arms deliveries due to Israeli attacks in Rafah, Gaza.
The European Union has urged Israel to end its military operation in Rafah and warned of strained relations if it fails to do so.
Despite the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people from the combat zones, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu denies there is a humanitarian crisis in Rafah.
The UNWRA reported that 600,000 people have fled Rafah due to intensified military operations.
However, the predicted humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza did not occur.
The events in Gaza brought back memories of the 1948 Nakba, or "catastrophe," for many Palestinians.
Hamas, the ruling power in Gaza, marked Nakba Day by declaring that the ongoing suffering of Palestinian refugees is a result of Israeli occupation.
Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh asserted that Hamas will be part of deciding the post-war rule in Gaza, along with other Palestinian factions.
He emphasized that Hamas will continue to exist in Gaza.
The text reports on a speech given by Ismail Haniyeh, the head of Hamas in Gaza, regarding the uncertain future of truce talks between Hamas and Israel.
Haniyeh emphasized the need for a permanent ceasefire, complete Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, prisoner exchange, return of displaced persons, reconstruction, and lifting the siege as conditions for an agreement.
Thousands gathered in the West Bank to mark the day with protests, waving Palestinian flags and symbols of lost homes.
Netanyahu, the Israeli Prime Minister, has pledged to destroy Hamas and bring back hostages still held in Gaza.
Approximately half a million people have been evacuated from combat zones in Rafah.
The UNWRA reported that 600,000 people have fled Rafah due to intensified military operations.
However, the predicted humanitarian catastrophe did not occur.
In an interview with CNBC, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu acknowledged disagreements with the US over Gaza but insisted on taking necessary actions.
The US has urged Israel to develop a post-war plan for Gaza and supports a two-state solution, which Netanyahu and his allies oppose.
The US State Department warned that without a political plan, violence will continue.
Israeli Defense Minister Gallant rejected the idea of Israeli military administration in Gaza and opposes civilian control over the Gaza Strip.
A war between Israel and Hamas began after Hamas's attack on southern Israel in October 2024, resulting in over 1,170 deaths, mostly civilians.
Hamas seized about 250 hostages, with 128 still believed to be in Gaza, including 36 reportedly dead.
Israel's military response has resulted in at least 35,233 deaths, mostly civilians, according to the Gaza health ministry.
The Israeli siege has caused dire food shortages and the threat of famine.
The Israeli military continues to strike Hamas targets, reporting the elimination of approximately 80 terror targets.
On May 15, 2024, clashes continued between Israeli troops and Hamas militants in various areas of Gaza, including Rafah in the south and Jabalia in the north.
The Israeli military reported killing militants in these battles, while Hamas's armed wing confirmed engaging in combat.
At least seven people, including a woman and her child, were killed in Israeli air strikes on Gaza City.
The Al-Ahli hospital in the city treated the wounded, while aid deliveries into Gaza have significantly decreased since Israeli control of the Rafah crossing with Egypt.
A 100-ton shipment of temporary shelter kits from the UK was sent to Gaza via Cyprus on Wednesday.
However, a previous convoy carrying humanitarian relief goods from Jordan through the West Bank was attacked and ransacked by Israeli right-wing activists on Monday.
Translation:
Translated by AI
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