Israel began military strikes on Rafah, Hamas’ last major stronghold in Gaza, after warning civilians to evacuate. The move came hours after Hamas agreed to a ceasefire with mediators from Egypt and Qatar.
Terms of the ceasefire weren’t disclosed, but officials said it would take place in stages, with Hamas releasing hostages it’s holding in exchange for Israeli military pullbacks and the release of some Palestinian prisoners.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the ceasefire proposal was “far from Israel’s demands” but that it would continue negotiation. In the meantime, he said, the military operation against Rafah would also continue.
