Israel has postponed its plans for a ground offensive in Rafah following Iran's attack, which saw the launch of 300 missiles and drones towards Israel overnight Sunday. This attack has heightened tensions and uncertainty in the Middle East, prompting Israel to reassess its military strategy.
The Israeli Air Force had intended to drop leaflets on parts of Rafah on Monday, where over a million people are currently seeking shelter. Despite the delay, Israeli officials remain resolute in their determination to carry out a ground offensive in the southern city, although the exact timing and details of the operation are still unclear.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized the necessity of invading Rafah to dismantle Hamas's remaining battalions, despite pressure from the United States to avoid a full-scale ground offensive. The ongoing discussions within Israel's war cabinet are considering the implications of a potential response to Iran's attack on the future of the conflict in Gaza.
The Israeli military's focus on Gaza could be diverted if a military response escalates tensions with Iran further. This diversion of attention and resources could impact Israel's commitment to delivering a decisive blow to Hamas in Gaza. The delicate balance between responding to external threats and managing internal conflicts is a key consideration for Israel's military and political leadership at this critical juncture.
