Israel News for 2-14-2024
News Update
A barrage of 8 precision rockets hit Safed early this morning. The attack targeted IDF bases around the city. One woman was killed and at least 8 people were wounded. Rockets were also fired at Kiryat Shemona and several bases in the north. The IDF is conducting intensive airstrikes against Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon in response to the attacks.
This all comes as progress is reportedly being made to arrive at a diplomatic solution to the situation in the north. A European official told Saudi television channel Al-Hadath that “there is significant progress in negotiations for the implementation of UN Resolution 1701 in Lebanon.” Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati added, “The situation in southern Lebanon still requires caution, but things are moving toward long-term stability. We’re seeking security, peace, and enduring stability in the south.” France, yesterday, presented a written proposal to end the fighting.
No progress has been made in negotiations to release the hostages. Israel has warned Hamas that if it does not accept a temporary truce and release all of the hostages, the IDF will advance on Rafah with full force.
The IDF released video of Hamas leader Sinwar moving through the tunnel system along with his wife and children. Sinwar and the other top Hamas leaders in Gaza are moving from place to place in fear of being killed or captured. It is unlikely that they are even in contact anymore with the Hamas leaders outside of Gaza. Therefore, he might not even be aware of the current negotiations for releasing the hostages. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called on Hamas to facilitate an exchange of hostages for prisoners with Israel to spare Palestinian people further “catastrophe.”
For a complete list of the soldiers killed in the ground offensive, click here.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich confirmed that he was blocking shipments of flour from being transferred into Gaza via UNRWA, to prevent them from falling into the hands of Hamas. He is working with the government to work out a different way of getting the aid into the hands of Gaza civilians.
