Gaza: Israeli PM Netanyahu says Rafah attack will happen regardless of deal - BBC News

The Israeli prime minister says the invasion will proceed "with or without" a truce with Hamas.

51 minutes agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingRelated TopicsIsrael-Gaza warImage source, EPAImage caption, Benjamin Netanyahu has long warned that Israel will invade RafahBy Matt MurphyBBC NewsPrime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel will launch an invasion of the southern Gaza city of Rafah regardless of truce talks with Hamas.

It comes amid ongoing attempts to try to reach an agreement for a ceasefire and hostage releases.

But at a meeting of hostages' relatives, Mr Netanyahu said he would invade "with or without" a deal.

His comments follow renewed warnings by the US against a Rafah invasion unless civilians were properly protected.

In a phone call with Mr Netanyahu on Sunday, US President Joe Biden "reiterated his clear position" on Rafah, a White House statement said. Mr Biden has previously described an invasion of Rafah as a "red line".

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-68928996

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