Netanyahu Accuses Critics of Weakening Israel in War with Hamas; Vows to Enter Rafah Even if a Deal is Reached

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday accused critics urging Israel not to conduct military action in Rafah of weakening the country in its war with Hamas. Netanyahu, who has vowed to 'destroy' the militant group responsible for the October 7 attack on Israel, stated: 'Even if we reach an agreement [for a ceasefire], we will enter Rafah.' Israel is facing increasing demands, including from the United States, to refrain from attacking Rafah. The Israeli military claims it is trying to minimize civilian casualties in the area but has not provided detailed plans for evacuating Rafah. Negotiations in Cairo to halt the fighting continue, while aid agencies are concerned about shortages of food, water, and medicine in the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu asserted that any resolution would only come through 'direct negotiations between the parties and without preconditions,' dismissing Hamas's demands as 'ridiculous.' He added that under his leadership, Israel would continue its strong opposition to the unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state. Meanwhile, thousands of Israelis protested in Tel Aviv, accusing Netanyahu's government of abandoning hostages taken during the October 7 attack. U.S. President Joe Biden stated on Friday at the White House that he had held 'extensive discussions' with Netanyahu in recent days and reiterated the necessity of a 'temporary ceasefire' to ensure the release of hostages still held by Hamas. Biden expressed hope that this could happen and that Israelis would not conduct any extensive ground attacks during this time. He emphasized that a ceasefire must be established for the release of hostages. Biden also mentioned that his 'hope and expectation' is that an agreement for the release of hostages and a ceasefire will be reached, stating, 'This agreement is currently being negotiated, and we will see where it goes.'