Netanyahu: Launch of IDF Offensive in Rafah Will Still Take Time

By Yoni Weiss

Two days following his conversation with President Joe Biden, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu on Wednesday issued a video statement, expressing his intention to soon authorize a plan for the evacuation of civilians from the war zone in Rafah.

Acknowledging Biden’s support, Netanyahu mentioned that Biden had requested to present proposals for U.S. assistance on humanitarian grounds and other aspects of the conflict.

Netanyahu announced that top aides would be sent to Washington on Sunday.

Regarding the operational plan in Rafah, Netanyahu assured that it had already received approval.

“While preparations are underway for the Rafah operation, which will take some time, we are continuing our efforts with full force,” Netanyahu said. “We are currently engaged in operations in Khan Yunis, targeting central camps for the apprehension and neutralization of high-ranking Hamas figures, as seen recently at Shifa Hospital, while simultaneously eliminating hundreds of terrorists.”

Reaffirming his commitment to achieving decisive victory, Netanyahu concluded, “As I have repeatedly promised, we are steadfast in our determination to secure absolute victory, and we will attain it.”