US President Joe Biden has advised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against initiating a military offensive in Rafah, Gaza. This advice comes amidst rising casualties from ongoing Israeli bombings in the area, provoking international concerns about the implications for civilian safety. Concurrently, Hamas has agreed to a ceasefire proposal facilitated by Egypt and Qatar, aiming to halt the seven-month conflict in Gaza. However, Israel has hesitated to accept this ceasefire, citing unfulfilled conditions, thereby continuing the airstrikes on Rafah.

The global community, including the United Nations, has expressed alarm regarding Israel’s potential large-scale military action in Rafah, predicting severe humanitarian consequences in the densely populated area. This city has already been experiencing substantial distress with thousands of its residents displaced, worsening the humanitarian crisis in the region.

In response to the escalating situation, the US has reiterated its call for Israel to consider the ramifications of a major military operation in Rafah. Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have been reported mobilizing near the border area, intensifying concerns of an imminent invasion.

Meanwhile, the situation in Gaza stays volatile with Israel’s rejection of the ceasefire proposal initially accepted by Hamas. The disparity in terms stems from disagreements over the terms concerning a mutual release of hostages, an element of the proposed truce aimed at de-escalating the conflict. Although conversations continue in pursuit of a resolution acceptable to Israel, the stance taken by Israel’s war cabinet has been to maintain military pressure on Hamas.

The international community, including bodies like the Stormont Assembly in Northern Ireland, is advocating for an immediate ceasefire and the safe release of hostages to prevent further escalation and tragedy in Gaza and southern Israel.