Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has expressed skepticism about the likelihood of a swift resolution to the situation in the Gaza Strip, considering Israel's current stance. Lavrov made this assessment during the XIII Middle East Conference of the Valdai Club.
"Considering the unwavering resolve of the Israeli leadership to persist with aggressive measures in Gaza, which have now spread to Rafah, we do not foresee immediate prospects for stabilization in this area," - Lavrov stated. - "Nonetheless, even as we pursue a ceasefire, it is crucial to establish conditions conducive to a durable and sustainable peace agreement."
During the UN Security Council meeting on the Palestinian issue, Lavrov highlighted Russia's enduring initiative to convene consultations with regional countries to align their support for the establishment of a Palestinian state. "Subsequently, we suggested organizing a Palestinian meeting involving all major Palestinian factions to bridge the internal divisions," the minister elaborated.
On February 7, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the military had been ordered to prepare for potential combat operations in Rafah, adjacent to the Gaza Strip's border with Egypt. Just two days later, he directed the army to devise a strategy for civilian evacuation and the elimination of the remaining Hamas battalions in the city.
On the evening of February 12, reports from Arab media indicated significant Israeli military strikes on Rafah. According to Al Mayadeen TV, the bombardment killed 100 Palestinians and injured 230.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry
Based on materials from TASS