Gaza: Benjamin Netanyahu sets date for Rafah offensive as pressure grows - BBC News

Israel's prime minister is facing calls to ramp up war on Hamas by right-wing political allies.

2 days agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingRelated TopicsIsrael-Gaza warImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Many Palestinians displaced by the war have sought shelter in RafahBy Hugo Bachega, in Jerusalem, and Sean SeddonBBC NewsIsrael's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has set a date for a military offensive into Rafah, despite growing warnings that it could lead to high civilian casualties.

More than a million Palestinians are sheltering in the southern city after being forced to flee their homes.

Mr Netanyahu's comment followed calls by far-right government allies to step up military actions against Hamas.

The prime minister's popularity has plummeted after six months of war.

With negotiations with Hamas still under way in Egypt, Mr Netanyahu is being pushed to agree a hostage-prisoner swap and ceasefire deal by many Israelis - as well as key international allies, including the US.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-68766913

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