Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed in a video message on Monday that a date has been set for an invasion into Rafah, the southernmost part of Gaza where approximately 1.5 million Palestinians are currently residing. The specific date of the invasion was not disclosed by Netanyahu. This announcement follows Israel's recent withdrawal from Khan Younis in southern Gaza.
New Ceasefire and Hostage Release Proposal
The United States presented a new proposal in Cairo over the weekend aimed at facilitating a ceasefire and the release of hostages. The proposal includes urging Israel to release a larger number of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the anticipated release of 40 Israeli hostages during the initial phase of a three-stage ceasefire agreement. Additionally, the US is advocating for Palestinian residents of northern Gaza who have sought refuge in the south to be permitted to return home without restrictions. Israel has thus far rejected Hamas' demand for an unrestricted return of Gazans to the north.
Influx of Aid Trucks into Gaza
A significant increase in the number of aid trucks entering Gaza has been observed. On Monday, 419 humanitarian aid trucks crossed the Kerem Shalom and Nitzana border crossings, marking the largest single-day delivery since the conflict began. Furthermore, approximately 258 food packages were airdropped across various locations in the Gaza Strip. The previous day, 304 aid trucks entered Gaza, as announced by the US State Department. Prior to the conflict, an average of 450-500 trucks would supply Gaza daily.
Passing of Longest-Serving Palestinian Prisoner
Walid Daqqa, the longest-serving Palestinian prisoner in Israeli custody, passed away at Shamir Medical Center after spending 38 years in an Israeli prison. Daqqa, a renowned author, wrote extensively about his prison experiences and the challenges faced by detainees. Amnesty International has called on Israeli authorities to return Daqqa's body to his family to allow for a dignified burial and mourning process.
