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Palestinians, some with foreign passports hoping to cross into Egypt and others waiting for aid, wait at the Rafah crossing in the southern Gaza Strip, Oct. 16, 2023.MOHAMMED ABED/AFP/GETTY
Israel's government has denied reports of a ceasefire in the southern part of the Gaza Strip to allow foreign nationals to leave and humanitarian aid to enter. As Israel's military continues to strike the Hamas-controlled enclave, the situation remains tense with ongoing attacks and preparations for a possible ground offensive. The conflict has resulted in casualties and a dire humanitarian crisis. The U.S. has called for Israel to minimize civilian casualties, while Hamas has refused negotiations as Israeli airstrikes continue.
Reports of a ceasefire in at least the southern portion of the Gaza Strip to facilitate humanitarian aid and the evacuation of individuals with international passports have been denied by Israel's government. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office issued a statement stating that there is currently no ceasefire. This comes as Israeli forces continue their missile strikes on the Hamas-controlled enclave.
Hamas initiated a violent campaign in southern Israel over a week ago, resulting in casualties and the capture of hostages, further escalating the situation.
Israel is making preparations for a potential ground offensive in Gaza. Health officials in Gaza report a high number of casualties, with thousands killed or injured. Among the victims are hundreds of children. Israel's government has expressed its determination to eliminate the Palestinian group Hamas.
U.S. President Biden stressed that Israel has the capacity and responsibility to take action against Hamas but cautioned against a full occupation of Gaza, describing it as a significant mistake. The U.S. has urged Israel to take measures to minimize harm to civilians.
The Gaza Strip has been subjected to constant missile attacks and a complete border closure by Israel since the initiation of Hamas' siege on October 7. This situation has given rise to a severe and rapidly deteriorating humanitarian crisis, according to aid organizations.
In the midst of this violence, there have been American casualties, with 30 U.S. citizens reportedly killed, and up to 600 U.S. nationals are believed to be trapped in Gaza. The U.S. State Department has expressed concerns over 13 Americans who were in Israel and remain unaccounted for.
Hamas has refrained from engaging in negotiations for the release of hostages as Israeli airstrikes continue, intensifying the conflict.
