Israel's military has intensified its offensive in Rafah, Gaza, amid mounting international pressure and isolation. The International Court of Justice is set to respond to a petition urging an immediate halt to the ground assault. The International Criminal Court has sought arrest warrants for Israeli and Hamas leaders, while three European countries plan to recognize a Palestinian state. Despite waning international support, Israel remains focused on its conflict with Hamas. The offensive in Rafah could test Israel's relations with the United States. The military claims to operate with minimal harm to civilians, but concerns about casualties and destruction persist. The rising international outcry has had little impact on Israeli public opinion, which remains focused on the Oct. 7 attacks. Israeli leaders aim to leverage foreign criticism to alleviate domestic frustration. They have responded with defiance and scorn to criticism from abroad, accusing the I.C.C. prosecutor of equating Hamas fighters and Israeli troops. Israel's intransigence may lead to further international isolation and unilateral recognition of Palestine as a country. The military contends that the assault on Rafah is crucial to defeating Hamas and dismantling its infrastructure. However, some analysts question whether the operation can deal a decisive blow to Hamas. The situation remains volatile, with conflicting reports on casualties and combat.