Israel’s military is on the brink of launching a ground operation in Rafah, a city in the southern Gaza Strip, to evacuate Palestinian civilians and take on Hamas fighters, despite warnings of a humanitarian crisis. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government spokesperson confirmed the move, stating that they are “moving ahead” with the operation.
The Defence Ministry has procured 40,000 tents to accommodate Palestinians who will be relocated from Rafah before the assault. Satellite images show tent camps being set up in Khan Younis, a nearby city, indicating preparations for the evacuation.
While Israel is determined to eliminate Hamas presence in Rafah, its ally, the United States, has urged Israel to reconsider its plans and explore alternative ways to deal with the situation. Egypt has also expressed concerns about the potential consequences of an Israeli assault on Rafah, emphasizing the need for a humanitarian plan.
Efforts to broker a ceasefire have so far been unsuccessful, and the situation remains tense. With casualties mounting on both sides, the international community is closely monitoring the developments in Rafah.
As tensions escalate and the threat of a full-scale assault looms, the fate of Rafah hangs in the balance. The decision to proceed with the operation could have far-reaching implications for the region, with the potential for further violence and displacement of civilians.