Devastation in Gaza as Israel wages war on Hamas

President Joe Biden told CNN on Wednesday he would halt some shipments of US weapons to Israel if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a major invasion of the city of Rafah. Follow for live updates.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel is ready to stand alone if necessary as it continues its military campaign in Gaza, in what appeared to be an indirect response to the US’ warnings over its actions in Rafah. Netanyahu said in a message to the Israeli people on the eve of the country’s Independence Day: “Today we are much stronger. We are determined and we are united to defeat our enemy and those who seek our souls. “If we have to stand alone, we will stand alone. I already said that if we have to – we will fight tooth and nail,” he said. It seemed to come in response to an announcement by US President Joe Biden on Wednesday that the United States would halt deliveries of some weapons to Israel if it continues its campaign into the southern Gaza city of Rafah.  Striking a defiant note, Netanyahu said: “In the War of Independence 76 years ago, we were few against many. We had no weapons, there was an arms embargo on Israel, but with the greatness of spirit, bravery and unity among us - we won.” There is a “pause” in the ceasefire-for-hostage talks in Gaza while Israel steps up its military operation in Rafah, two US officials have told CNN.