Israel's security cabinet voted to expand IDF operation in Rafah on a limited scale and continue talks with mediators for a hostage release deal with Hamas, seen as a rebuke of the US due to weapon withholding. The US had warned about halting offensive weapons shipments if Israel entered population centers of Rafah.
Key Points
Security cabinet's vote to expand IDF operation in Rafah
US warning on halting weapon shipments if Israel enters population centers of Rafah
Rafah being the last Hamas stronghold in Gaza
Pros
Continued efforts towards a potential ceasefire and hostage release deal with Hamas
Measured expansion of IDF operation in Rafah to prevent Hamas from regaining power in Gaza
Cons
Risk of strained relations with the US due to weapon withholding and warnings
Concerns over impact on humanitarian conditions in Gaza