Israel Hamas war: Israel's Rafah offensive to cost Netanyahu his allies?

As Israel prepares for a massive ground offensive in one of Gaza's most densely populated areas, the Jewish nation's historic allies are reconsidering their support to Netanyahu's unrelenting attack.

Israel Defence Forces have intensified airstrikes on Rafah, where an estimated 1.5 million Palestinians have sought refuge, despite warnings from allies.

As the worsening humanitarian crisis is mounting diplomatic pressure on the West, the United Kingdom may be considering suspension of arms exports to Israel.

The Guardian quoted Ministerial sources report that the UK could move quickly if legal advice suggests that Israel's actions are in violation of International law.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron said that a military offensive in Rafah without harming civilians and destroying homes is not possible.

In a debate in the House of Commons, Foreign Minister Andrew Mitchell called an offensive in Rafah a 'red line' for the UK. He said they have warned the Israeli government against launching a military attack in the densely populated area, as it would have devastating consequences.

UK officials were accused by a Palestinian diplomat on Wednesday of violating the international 'Arms Trade Treaty' signed in Geneva. An article in the treaty forbids the signatories from transferring conventional weapons to a nation or a group, if it's known that the arms would be used for genocide or crimes against humanity.

The UK has given 144 standard licences to Israel worth £42m in 2022.

The Hague district court earlier this month ordered the Dutch government to stop the export of F-35 fighter jet parts to Israel within a week, as there is a severe risk of violations of International Humanitarian Law.