Jaresalem: Israel’s PM Benjamin Netanyahu has denied reports of a ceasefire to allow “foreigners out” of south Gaza and “humanitarian aid in”. US media had reported that Egypt could reopen the Rafah crossing for several hours from 09:00 local time (06:00 GMT) – but it is currently closed.
Thousands of people are gathering in the hope of leaving Gaza ahead of an expected Israeli ground offensive. US nationals in Gaza had previously been told to move closer to the crossing, while US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said it “will be open” for aid without giving timings.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military says it is evacuating 28 communities within 2km (1.24 miles) of the Lebanese border. US President Joe Biden has called on Israel to exercise caution, as its military prepares for a ground offensive in Gaza.
More than 1,400 people in Israel were killed in Hamas attacks just over a week ago; Nearly 2,700 people in Gaza have been killed in Israel’s retaliatory bombardment.
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