Intense Negotiations Surrounding Hamas Fighters in Rafah Tunnels
In the ongoing conflict, the situation surrounding hundreds of Hamas militants trapped in Rafah tunnels has escalated. The U.S. has proposed allowing 100 to 200 Hamas operatives safe passage from the Israeli-controlled area, as they seek a potential model for disarming Hamas. However, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has firmly rejected any safe passage without disarmament, emphasizing that Hamas fighters face either surrender or remain underground. Israeli officials have threatened to kill the trapped militants, with the IDF actively targeting Hamas operatives within their controlled territory. The U.S. continues to pressure Israel for consent on a safe withdrawal plan, but resistance remains high, with Netanyahu reiterating his stance against allowing any terrorists to escape back to Hamas-controlled areas. Meanwhile, Hamas is reportedly negotiating for a safe exit, but conditions remain contentious.
Axios, The Times of Israel, KOMO, The Jerusalem Post, The Wall Street Journal, Haaretz, JNS.org, Foundation for Defense of Democracies, Tribune India, News18