Israeli national security minister Itamar Ben Gvir issued a statement on Monday, emphasizing the potential consequences if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opts against a ground offensive in Rafah. Ben Gvir warned that Netanyahu may risk losing the support of the coalition that has thus far sustained his position as prime minister.
Ben Gvir, who leads the Jewish Power party and is known for his far-right views, has a controversial history that includes convictions related to supporting terrorism and inciting anti-Arab sentiments. Earlier this year, he proposed the mass relocation of Palestinians from Gaza to make room for Israeli settlers.
The recent developments follow the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) decision to withdraw troops from Khan Younis in southern Gaza. The implications of this withdrawal on Israel's intended invasion of Rafah, a city in southern Gaza housing approximately 1.5 million Palestinians, remain uncertain. Israel has underscored the necessity of entering Rafah to eliminate Hamas from the region.
Israeli authorities have clarified that the IDF's military operations in the Gaza Strip are ongoing despite the troop withdrawal from Khan Younis. The situation continues to evolve as Israel deliberates its next steps in the conflict with Hamas.
