Israel Expands Offensive, Advances into Central Rafah

The Israeli military has confirmed its forces are operating in central Rafah as part of an expanding offensive in the southern Gaza city, which has led to a mass exodus of Palestinians and disrupted U.N. humanitarian efforts. Despite the escalation, the U.S. does not view it as a "major operation." President Biden has urged for a deal between Israel and Hamas to release hostages and extend a cease-fire. The offensive aims to dismantle Hamas infrastructure, including tunnels and weapons storage, following Hamas's attack on Israel in October.