The tension in the Middle East continues to escalate as the Israeli military has issued an evacuation order to tens of thousands of Palestinians in the southern Gazan city of Rafah. This comes as Israel’s defence minister, Yoav Gallant, warned of an imminent military “operation” in the region.
At least 100,000 civilians in Rafah have been instructed to move to what Israel deems a humanitarian zone on the Mediterranean. The Israel Defence Force spokesperson stated that this operation is part of a “gradual plan” and is of “limited scope.”
The evacuation order follows reports of stalled negotiations between Israel and the militant group Hamas over a potential ceasefire and a hostage swap. Hamas has insisted on a “permanent ceasefire” before agreeing to free any hostages, a demand that has hindered progress in previous negotiations.
CIA director Bill Burns is expected to visit Israel to discuss the details of a proposal being brokered by the US, Egypt, and Qatar. The proposal, currently under review by Hamas, could lead to a temporary ceasefire and the release of hostages in exchange for a “sustainable calm.”
The situation in Rafah remains volatile, with three Israeli soldiers killed in a recent mortar attack near the Kerem Shalom border crossing. Israel’s western allies have urged caution, emphasizing the need to protect the more than 1 million Palestinian civilians in the region.
As tensions continue to rise, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government faces internal pressure from far-right coalition allies who demand the dismantling of Hamas battalions in Rafah before any resolution to the conflict. The international community watches closely as the situation in Gaza unfolds.