Tel Aviv - Title: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a stern warning to Iran and Hezbollah, cautioning them not to provoke Israel in the northern region.
Speaking at the Israeli Knesset, Netanyahu emphasized the need for international solidarity to overcome the threat posed by Hamas.
Netanyahu declared that the ongoing conflict with Hamas was not only Israel's fight but also a global struggle. He drew comparisons between Hamas and the Nazis, urging the world to unite in defeating the terrorist organization.
The warning comes as over a million Palestinians have fled their homes in anticipation of a potential Israeli ground invasion aimed at dismantling Hamas. With attention focused on the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt, where aid trucks have been stranded, food, water, and medical supplies in Palestine have become increasingly scarce. Mediators are pushing for a ceasefire that would facilitate aid delivery and the safe departure of foreigners.
Egypt's Foreign Minister, Sameh Shoukry, indicated that Israel has not yet agreed to open the Rafah crossing from the Gaza side. The Gaza health ministry reported a devastating toll, with 2,750 Palestinians killed and 9,700 wounded since the conflict began, surpassing the casualties of the 2014 Gaza war, which lasted more than six weeks.
On the Israeli side, more than 1,400 individuals, primarily civilians targeted in Hamas's October 7 assault, have lost their lives. The Israeli military revealed that at least 199 hostages were taken back to Gaza, higher than initial estimates.
Israel has issued evacuation orders for over one million Palestinians in Gaza City and surrounding areas, stating that it aims to clear out civilians ahead of a major offensive against Hamas in the north. In contrast, Hamas has advised people to remain in their homes.
The World Health Organization has raised concerns about the overflowing hospitals in Gaza, with mass displacement and inadequate water and sanitation exacerbating the risk of disease outbreaks. Adequate water supply is essential for maintaining sanitary conditions in hospitals and preventing infections and outbreaks.