Israel was on the brink of launching a ground offensive in Rafah this week, a move that has been postponed as the country weighs its response to Iran's recent attack. According to Israeli sources, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been advocating for an invasion of Rafah to dismantle Hamas's remaining battalions, despite facing significant international pressure to refrain from a full-scale ground operation.
The decision to delay the offensive comes as Israel considers the potential consequences of escalating tensions with Iran. A military response that risks further conflict with Iran could divert the military's focus and resources away from the ongoing situation in Gaza.