The Israeli prime minister expresses strong confidence that the operation aimed at dismantling Hamas influence in Rafah should be wrapped up by March 10, driven in part by international calls for progress. The goal is framed as a decisive step to curb violence and restore stability in southern Gaza while maintaining regional security commitments.
During a session with senior military leadership, the prime minister reportedly set the timetable for completing the Rafah operation before the Muslim holy month of Ramadan begins. This year’s Ramadan is scheduled to run from March 11 to April 9, and officials indicated timing was being considered to minimize civilian disruption while maintaining military objectives.
At the same discussion, the commander of the Israel Defense Forces described the readiness of troops for the operation. However, he noted that deployment plans would be contingent on government decisions regarding the fate and safety of civilians displaced from northern Gaza into Rafah. The emphasis remained on protecting civilians while pressing ahead with security objectives in the region.
Earlier in the week, the defense ministry was instructed to formulate a plan for the evacuation of residents from Rafah. Officials stressed the importance of orderly, humane measures to move people out of harm’s way as security actions proceed in the city’s southern sector.
In parallel, government leadership indicated that Hamas demands embedded in a three-phase ceasefire proposal would not be accepted. The stance reflects a preference for a security-first approach, with limited flexibility on terms that could put civilians at risk or undermine the stabilization effort.
Previously, conditions for a temporary ceasefire were discussed in terms that critics described as unrealistic, emphasizing the need for practical arrangements that ensure civilian protection and reliable humanitarian access. The ongoing policy debate highlights the tension between rapid security gains and the broader goal of stabilizing the region for long-term peace and safety for residents.