Senior Hamas official Moussa Abu Marzouk announced on motzei Shabbos the next 24 hours are critical for if Israel does not meet Hamas’ demands during this time period, Hamas will renew the warfare. “If the enemy does not accept Hamas’ demands, we will end the Cairo talks and renew the warfare” he told the media.

In the interim, the White House and Downing Street released a joint message calling for an end to the fighting, turning to both sides to advance negotiations and halt the warfare.

In Israel, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s popularity is falling amid growing dissatisfaction with his handling of Operation Protective Edge. While many residents of kibbutzim along the Gaza border have returned home, a growing number are announcing they will not return, explaining they are unwilling to place their children in the midst of a war zone. They accuse the prime minister of failing to complete the job and abandoning their basic security needs.

Gaza border community leaders are becoming increasingly vocal as it is becoming evident that area may become the new northern border, meaning these communities may have to live with a reality that includes rocket fire over the border.

It is clear Mr. Netanyahu is not looking to send troops back into Gaza in an effort to disarm Gaza, now hoping international pressure and negotiations will result in an acceptable ceasefire. To his dismay, as indicated by Hamas, there is no willingness to compromise and unless Israel agrees to lift the marine blockade, permitting a Gaza port, opening all crossing and other measures, Hamas will not agree to a ceasefire. Hence, at least according to Abu Marzouk, the warfare will resume.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)