Israel expands evacuation orders for residents in additional areas of Rafah | Global News

Israel has defied heavy US pressure and announced plans to proceed with an assault on the southern city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip, where more than 1.4 million people, including half a million children, have sought refuge. Despite warnings from President Joe Biden that the US would stop supplying Israel with certain weapons if the assault goes ahead, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains resolute in his decision.

The United Nations and other agencies have expressed concerns that an Israeli assault on Rafah could lead to a catastrophic surge in civilian casualties and hinder humanitarian operations in the region. The UK government has also criticized the lack of a credible plan to protect civilians in the current evacuation area.

The Israel Defense Forces have issued evacuation orders in southern and northern sections of Gaza, signaling an escalation in military operations. The decision to expand the operation in southern Gaza is expected to inflame international opinion and strain Israel’s relationship with the United States.

Israel views Rafah as a key Hamas stronghold and aims to dismantle the group’s capabilities and secure the release of hostages captured in a previous attack. However, Hamas has shown resilience and regrouped in the face of Israeli offensives.

As heavy fighting continues in northern Gaza, where Israel previously claimed to have eradicated Hamas, the situation remains tense. The Biden administration has raised concerns about Israel’s use of US-provided weapons in Gaza, potentially violating international humanitarian law.

The conflict in Gaza, triggered by Hamas’s attack, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement of the population. The situation remains volatile as Israel prepares to escalate its military assault on Rafah despite international pressure.