Israel reopens Kerem Shalom aid crossing amidst battles in east Rafah

On the outskirts of the southern Gaza city of Rafah, fighting and bombardment have escalated as Israel announced the reopening of the Kerem Shalom crossing for aid. The Israeli military reported killing Hamas fighters in eastern Rafah as part of a “precise” counterterrorism operation, while Hamas also confirmed the battles.

Earlier, lorries carrying aid reached Kerem Shalom, a crucial route that had been closed following a rocket attack on Sunday. However, a UN agency stated that no supplies had entered through the crossing yet.

Negotiations for a new ceasefire and hostage release deal have resumed in Cairo, with the US expressing optimism about a revised Hamas proposal potentially leading to a breakthrough. The Israeli military downplayed concerns over the US halting a shipment of powerful bombs, emphasizing the ongoing operations in Rafah.

With more than a million displaced Palestinians seeking refuge in Rafah, Israel has stressed the importance of taking control of the city for victory. However, the UN and Western powers have warned of dire humanitarian consequences if an all-out assault were to occur.

Plumes of smoke from Israeli air strikes and heavy gunfire have been reported in Rafah, with the IDF continuing a limited offensive in eastern areas. The military stated that they have eliminated terrorists and uncovered underground infrastructure during recent encounters.

Residents of Rafah have experienced intense bombardment, with reports of casualties and destruction. The Israeli military has ordered the evacuation of around 100,000 residents and displaced individuals in eastern neighborhoods, providing humanitarian aid in designated areas.

The World Health Organization has raised concerns about the functioning of hospitals in Rafah due to the ongoing hostilities, with fuel shortages threatening essential services. Displaced individuals have expressed the hardships they face, hoping for a swift resolution to the conflict.

Despite the reopening of Kerem Shalom for aid, the UN aid agency for Palestinian refugees has not received any supplies via the crossing, citing ongoing military operations in the area. The situation remains critical as the conflict continues to escalate.

UN Secretary General António Guterres has called for an immediate ceasefire and the reopening of key crossings, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian assistance. The fate of the region hangs in the balance as Israel and Hamas navigate delicate negotiations amidst escalating violence.