On Monday spirits were lifted in Gaza when Hamas issued a statement declaring it would accept the terms of a ceasefire deal brokered by Egypt and Qatar. But joy was short-lived.
Israel quickly announced the deal did not go far enough towards releasing the hostages captured on October 7th.
At the same time, Israeli defence forces began their takeover of a crucial border crossing between Egypt and Gaza.
So what now? What will it take for Israeli prime minister Binjamin Netanyahu, a man under pressure at home and abroad, to agree to a ceasefire and call off the invasion of Rafah, a city of last resort for 1.4 million displaced Gazans?
Another €6bn of Apple money delivers record tax-take for Government
Eight Independent TDs banding together to form new Regional Group in Dáil
Fianna Fáil’s election result must be reflected in composition of next government, Martin says
Woman who died from injuries sustained in Cork City attack named
Mark Weiss is a contributor to The Irish Times based in Jerusalem. He explains how this crucial week in the seven-month long conflict unfolded and how domestic political considerations have trumped international pressure in Netanyahu’s decision-making so far.
Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Declan Conlon.
