The Israeli military has announced a significant security boost ahead of the Jewish holiday of Passover, with forces deployed along the entire length of Israel’s borders. This move comes in the wake of recent violence in Gaza, where emergency services have recovered the bodies of at least 50 Palestinians from a mass grave near the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis.
Civil defence teams are still conducting a search and recovery operation, with reports suggesting that up to 150 bodies may be buried in the area. The Israeli Defense Forces had previously withdrawn from Khan Younis after intense fighting to root out Hamas, leaving the city in ruins.
In addition, at least 22 people, including 18 children, were killed in overnight Israeli air strikes on the southern city of Rafah. Israel has been carrying out frequent air raids on Rafah, where a large portion of Gaza’s population has sought refuge.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue targeting Hamas in order to pressure the group to release Israeli hostages still being held in Gaza. Despite international warnings, Israel has threatened a full-scale ground offensive in Rafah, where Hamas leadership and several battalions are believed to be based.
As tensions escalate, the Israeli military remains on high alert along the borders, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and adherence to security directives during the upcoming holiday. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stressed the priority of ensuring the safety of Israeli citizens during this volatile period.