In West Asia, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains resolute in his commitment to continue the conflict with Hamas, despite the counsel of the White House’s top advisor, Jake Sullivan, who is in Israel for negotiations. Sullivan explicitly urged a reduction in the Gaza offensive. Their meeting with Netanyahu and Israel’s war cabinet on Thursday was underscored by the White House’s call for a transition from high-intensity military operations to a more targeted strategy. Sullivan emphasized the need for cohesive governance between the West Bank and Gaza Strip under a restructured Palestinian authority.
Prior comments by Israel’s Defense Minister, Yoav Galan, indicated that dismantling Hamas could take longer than several months. This raises questions about the duration of the ongoing conflict. Israel faces escalating international pressure and isolation due to an offensive that has claimed thousands of lives. Even the US, a strong ally, is urging caution.
Jake Sullivan emphasized the importance of prioritizing civilian lives, urging Israel not only to cease attacks but also to exercise increased caution. Sullivan is set to meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah.
Following this meeting, the Palestinian Prime Minister expressed dissatisfaction with the US’s UN veto, appealing for a Gaza ceasefire and pressing for actionable steps towards a two-state solution. American officials consistently voice support for a two-state resolution but are urged to translate this support into tangible measures.
Conversely, Israeli President Isaac Herzog and other officials oppose a potential two-state solution for achieving lasting peace in the region. They emphasize the need to address emotional trauma and ensure comprehensive security before revisiting talks about land division, peace negotiations, or dialogue with Palestinians.
Meanwhile, amidst ongoing negotiations, Israel continues its offensive in Gaza. The Israeli military reported the surrender of dozens of Hamas fighters in the last 24 hours. Service providers in Gaza reported communication disruptions on Thursday.
Moreover, Hamas downplays Israel’s efforts to flood tunnels in Gaza, designed by Hamas for strategic purposes. Israel planned to inundate these tunnels with seawater, but Hamas claims they considered such actions while constructing these tunnels.
The West Bank also witnessed an escalation in violence. Israeli troops killed 12 Palestinians during raids on Thursday in Jenin. Palestinian authorities accused Israeli soldiers of desecrating a mosque, condemning the operation as a dangerous escalation. The Israeli Army pledged disciplinary actions against soldiers involved in the reported desecration.
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