Smoke billowed in Rafah on the southern Gaza strip Wednesday following Israeli overnight airstrikes.  Israel is reportedly researching whether the conditions are right to stop bombing Palestinian militants in Gaza, but is prepared for “more days” of strikes if necessary, according to an Israeli military source. 

Images of rockets being fired towards Israel from outside Rafah were taken Wednesday.  Displaced Palestinian civilians are taking shelter at schools and refuge centers amid the daily airstrikes by Israeli forces.  

“We will continue as long as it takes in order to restore calm for all of Israel’s citizens,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Twitter. 

Medical officials in Gaza say 215 Palestinians have been killed, including 61 children and 36 women, with over 1,400 wounded. Israeli officials say 12 people have been killed in Israel, including two children.

Despite increasing global calls for a ceasefire and a request for a "significant de-escalation today" from U.S. President Joe Biden, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed to continue aggressive military strikes in Gaza until the operation's "aim is met."

Check out The China Report, our new weekly newsletter. Subscribe here!