Israel-Hamas conflict: Israel escalates attacks on Rafah in Gaza, while Hamas vows to resist achieving goals.

Medics reported five Israeli airstrikes on Rafah on Thursday that hit at least three houses. Israel has intensified its attack on Rafah following its commitment to proceed with the planned military operation in the southern Gaza city. Hamas countered, stating that Israel would not achieve its objectives even with an invasion of Rafah.

In the besieged Palestinian enclave, at least six people, including a local journalist, were reported killed in the airstrikes. In addition to this, Israeli forces resumed bombarding northern and central areas of the enclave, as well as east of Khan Younis in the south. Hamas emphasized its belief that Israel will not succeed in defeating the Palestinian group by invading Rafah.

Senior Hamas official Ghazi Hamad expressed skepticism about Israel’s ability to achieve its main goals, such as eliminating Hamas or securing the release of captives, despite the extensive time spent and extensive destruction in Gaza. Egypt has reportedly sought a follow-up meeting with Israel to facilitate a ceasefire and the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip. A meeting between Egyptian and Israeli officials was anticipated to occur in Cairo on Friday, with further discussions with the Hamas delegation contingent on the outcome.

The Gaza health authorities revealed that Israel has caused the deaths of at least 34,305 Palestinians. Furthermore, the United States and 17 other countries issued an appeal for Hamas to release all hostages as a means to resolve the crisis in Gaza.