An Israeli tank brigade has seized control of the Gaza Strip side of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt, authorities say, moving forward with an offensive in the southern city even as cease-fire negotiations with Hamas remain on a knife’s edge.
The move comes after hours of whiplash in the Israel-Hamas war, with the militant group on Monday saying it accepted an Egyptian-Qatari mediated cease-fire proposal. Israel, meanwhile, insisted the deal did not meet its core demands. The high-stakes diplomatic moves and military brinkmanship left a glimmer of hope alive — but only barely — for an accord that could bring at least a pause in the 7-month-old war that has devastated the Gaza Strip.
The Israeli 401st Brigade entered the Rafah crossing early Tuesday morning, the Israeli military said, taking “operational control” of the crucial crossing. It’s the main route for aid entering the besieged enclave and exit for those able to flee into Egypt.
With college football drama behind him, Devontez Walker eager to show his talent with Baltimore
Thaksin Shinawatra: Former Thai prime minister released on parole
China works to promote energy conservation, carbon reduction in construction industry
Israel Gaza: Biden urges Israel to protect Rafah civilians
No positive progress in Gaza truce talks: Hamas source
1.334 bln people covered by China's basic medical insurance
Alabama clinics pause IVF treatments after frozen embryo ruling
Commentary: 2024 ushers in vibrant Chinese economy
Xi to begin Serbia visit on the 25th anniversary of NATO's bombing of the Chinese Embassy
UN likely to vote on Gaza ceasefire, US signals veto