Israel launched a ‘limited’ military operation into Rafah on Tuesday, seizing the crucial border crossing with Egypt in a bid to choke off supplies of arms and funds that reportedly pass there to Hamas. This move has sparked a strong warning from US President Joe Biden, who has cautioned Israel that Washington will halt the supply of some weapons if a full-scale ground offensive is launched in Rafah.
The situation in the south Gaza city has raised concerns for the safety of displaced Palestinian civilians, with more than 1.4 million seeking shelter in Rafah, following advice from the Israeli military declaring it a safe zone. However, living conditions in makeshift tent camps are dire, with limited access to food, water, and healthcare.
State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller revealed that Washington has already suspended a shipment containing thousands of bombs, expressing ongoing concerns about a potential military operation in Rafah. The international community has strongly criticized Israel’s plans to eliminate Hamas battalions in the area.
While reiterating the US commitment to Israel’s security, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that future security assistance shipments are under review in light of unfolding events in Rafah. The United Nations has highlighted the fluid humanitarian situation in Gaza, with challenges faced by aid agencies due to active military operations.
Despite the tensions, the Israeli military reopened the Kerem Shalom crossing to aid vehicles on Wednesday after a temporary closure following a Hamas rocket attack. The situation in Rafah remains tense as the world watches closely to see how events will unfold in the coming days.