Biden and Netanyahu discussed the operation in Rafah and Mo"from a ceasefire; Senior Hamas official: There are no substantial disputes in the deal

The 206th day of the war: according to the White House, US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed in their conversation preparations for the IDF’s entry into Rafah, and the President “reiterated his clear position”. It was also reported that Biden discussed increasing humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and opening new crossings. In addition, the two discussed the negotiations for the release of the abductees, and Biden reiterated his position that a ceasefire is conditional on their release.

A source familiar with the negotiations said that the Israeli proposal includes a willingness to discuss a comprehensive ceasefire after the initial release of hostages. A media outlet in Saudi Arabia informed that a Hamas delegation headed by Sinwar’s deputy, Khalil al-Hiya, is expected to arrive today (Monday) to discuss the proposal.

Ministers on both sides of the government are threatening to dismantle the abductee deal: Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said that agreeing to the Egyptian deal would be “a humiliating surrender, a death sentence for the abductees who are not included in the deal and a danger to the State of Israel,” and that if Netanyahu decides to cancel the occupation of Rafah, the government under his leadership has no right existence. In response, the chairman of the state camp, Minister Benny Gantz, said: “If a responsible outline for the return of the abductees is reached with the backing of the entire security system, which does not involve ending the war, and the ministers who led the government on October 7 prevent it – the government will not have the right to continue to exist and lead the campaign.”

At the same time, Israel is preparing to enter Rafah. The Chief of Staff, Major General Herzi Halevi approved plans for the continuation of the war and action in Rafah with the commander of the Southern Command, Major General Yaron Finkelman and all the commanders of the divisions and brigades in the command. The spokesman for the White House’s National Security Council, John Kirby, said in an interview with the ABC network that Israel assured the US that it would not enter Rafah before “we can express our concerns and our perspective.” He also added that Israel has begun to meet its humanitarian aid commitments to President Biden.