In addition, the fighters of the Israel Defence Forces' (IDF) sea arm attacked other targets and provided fire support to the forces of the IDF's 99th reserve infantry division operating in the center of the Gaza Strip
The fighters of the 679th brigade's combat team identified a number of terrorists in the center of the strip near the maneuvering forces, in a quick divisional circle closure, an aircraft attacked and eliminated the terrorists
In another operation, the fighters of the brigade identified a terrorist cell inside a building in the center of the Gaza Strip. in a joint divisional effort
Artillery forces and aircraft attacked the building where the squad operated and eliminated the terrorists
US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke during a phone call regarding Israel's intention to open more crossings into northern Gaza this week, facilitating increased humanitarian assistance in the region, according to a White House readout
The crossings in question, namely the Karni and Erez crossings, are set to be fully opened by Israel, along with Gate 96, to allow access into northern Gaza for aid purposes. Opening more crossings is deemed crucial for ensuring a steady influx of aid into Gaza, especially amidst fears of potential famine. Additionally, these openings become even more vital if Israel proceeds with a significant invasion of Rafah, as it could isolate the existing humanitarian hub from the rest of Gaza, The Times of Israel reported
The White House readout also stated that the two leaders discussed a potential Israeli offensive in Rafah and that Biden "reiterated his clear position"
While the readout doesn't provide additional details, the US has made it clear that it cannot endorse any operation that fails to guarantee the complete protection of the more than one million Palestinians seeking refuge in Rafah, Gaza's southernmost city. Moreover, US officials have consistently voiced their opposition to a significant operation in Rafah without any exceptions, according to the Times of Israel
In relation to recent improvements in the flow of aid into Gaza, Biden on the call "stressed the need for this progress to be sustained and enhanced in full coordination with humanitarian organisations"
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