JERUSALEM (AP) — An announcement by Hamas late Monday that it had accepted a cease-fire proposal sent people in the streets of Rafah into temporary jubilation, as Palestinian evacuees in the jam-packed town felt their first glimmer of hope the war could end.
For families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, the announcement raised the possibility that their long wait was coming to an end — that they might soon see their loved ones.
But the fervor was short-lived.
A few hours after Hamas’ announcement, Israel rejected the proposal — which was different from one the two sides had been discussing for days — and said it was sending a team of negotiators for a new round of talks.
By Tuesday morning, Israeli tanks had rolled into Rafah, cementing the dashed hopes among Israelis and Palestinians of any imminent cease-fire.
In Rafah, disillusioned Palestinians spent Tuesday packing up their belongings and preparing to evacuate.
Nadal says he is not 100% fit ahead of Madrid debut
China strengthens punishment of corrupt practices
China welcomes Hungary's visa facilitation measures: FM spokesperson
Beijing urges respect in South China Sea dispute
Pamela Anderson, 56, breaks her no make
U.S. chip firms urge Biden administration to approve sales to China as ban backfires
Strides made toward more global diversity
Chinese FM denounces 'freedom of speech' in U.S.
Former head of one of China's top state
Resolving border issue 'in common interest' of China and India: Chinese FM
Stormy Daniels admits she hates Trump: Porn star reads his posts calling her 'horseface' in court
Weaponization of human rights slammed