UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Keir Starmer have expressed concerns regarding the Israeli military instructing approximately 100,000 Palestinians to evacuate parts of Rafah in Gaza, suggesting a potential ground invasion by Israel. This follows a deadly rocket attack by Hamas. Sunak has called for a pause in the fighting to allow humanitarian aid into the area, while Starmer emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages.

US President Joe Biden has also been involved, opposing a full-scale invasion of Rafah in a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, while pushing for the protection of civilians. Despite Biden’s concerns, Netanyahu remains committed to the operation, citing national security threats due to past terrorist activities in Rafah.

Amidst escalating tensions, Hamas has accepted a ceasefire proposal brokered by Egypt and Qatar, which includes the release of hostages and Israeli troop pullbacks. The proposal is set to be implemented in three phases, starting with a prisoner swap. However, Israeli officials have shown skepticism towards this ceasefire proposal, with some describing it as a potential ruse.

The situation continues to evolve, with international mediators working towards a resolution and the international community watching closely as developments unfold in Rafah. Concerns about a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, marked by severe conditions and shortages, persist as efforts to secure a sustainable ceasefire continue.