Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir downplayed Hamas' decision to approve the Egyptian-Qatari proposal for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, stressing that this would not stop the military operation in Rafah.

Ben Gvir said in a post on the “X” platform, “Hamas’ exercises and games have only one answer: the immediate order to occupy Rafah and increase military pressure until Hamas is defeated.”

Army Radio also quoted two security officials as saying: “Preparations for the military operation in Rafah are continuing as planned, and there is no change in the preparations for the operation.”

Israeli media revealed, on Monday, that the operation in Rafah, south of the Gaza Strip, was unanimously approved by the Israeli Council of Ministers.

Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper said that the War Administration Council last night unanimously approved the operation in Rafah, noting that the operation is expected to begin within a few days.

The newspaper added that once the evacuation of residents begins, the process is expected to begin within a few days.

An Israeli official told the newspaper, "If Hamas agrees to an exchange deal, it is possible to stop the operation in Rafah."