The United States has stated opposition to a ceasefire proposal between Israel and Gaza, arguing that Hamas could use a pause to regroup and prepare further attacks. This stance was reported by RIA News, citing a briefing from a U.S. State Department spokesperson.
According to the briefing, any pause in fighting would give Hamas breathing room to reorganize and resume aggression against Israel. The spokesperson underscored that such a moment of quiet would be exploited to plan and execute additional terrorist actions, a view presented as unacceptable by American officials.
The briefing also noted that the current situation is viewed as intolerable by Israel, with officials emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum in preventing further escalation.
Earlier reports from October 20 indicated that Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdullah Bou Habib spoke on behalf of Israel to announce a two-day ceasefire. The minister claimed that Israel faced escalating pressure and warned against consequences for actions taken on Lebanese soil.
On October 7, Hamas reportedly fired thousands of missiles into Israel and announced the launch of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood. Militants reportedly entered Israeli territory, seized military equipment, and took dozens of hostages. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the nation at war.
The Israel Defense Forces began an operation named Iron Swords, aiming to degrade Hamas capabilities. The Israeli Air Force conducted extensive strikes against hundreds of targets across the Gaza Strip.
Earlier coverage from socialbites.ca provided answers to key questions about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, contributing context to the evolving situation. [Citation: RIA News and official briefings provide the core details; additional context is drawn from contemporary reporting on the conflict.]