(VOVWORLD) -Despite numerous calls for a ceasefire from the international community, the Israeli army conducted simultaneous attacks on Gaza and Southern Lebanon on Monday, the first day of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
 Smoke rises after an Israeli attack on the city of Khan Yunis, southern Gaza Strip on the first day of Ramadan, March 11, 2024. (Photo: Said Khatib/AFP) |
In Gaza, the Israeli army launched combined infantry attacks, air strikes, and artillery shelling against multiple targets. Israel’s army used artillery and fighter jets to carry out multiple attacks on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.
US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said Monday that the Israeli government has not yet presented a military or humanitarian plan for Rafah, a crucial requirement before initiating a military campaign in that area.
The US government has previously communicated to Israel, both privately and publicly, that it cannot and should not engage in Rafah without a credible and viable humanitarian plan in place.
Tensions between the US and Israel regarding the military operation in Rafah escalated over the weekend when President Joe Biden accused Israel of disregarding the lives of innocent people in Gaza. Following this statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel will proceed with its military operation in Rafah, even during the month of Ramadan.