Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has given orders to the military to evacuate civilians from the southern Gazan city of Rafah in preparation for an expanded offensive against Hamas. The move comes as 1.5 million Palestinians seek refuge in Rafah from ongoing combat operations in other parts of Gaza. The United States, European Union, and United Nations have all expressed concern over the potential invasion, with the US warning that it would be a “disaster.” Aid groups have stated that it is not feasible to evacuate everyone from the city.
Netanyahu emphasized the importance of eliminating Hamas in order to achieve the goal of the war. He stated that leaving four Hamas battalions in Rafah would hinder the mission and that intense activity in the area necessitates the evacuation of civilians. Earlier in the week, Netanyahu rejected Hamas’s proposed ceasefire terms and declared that Israel was on track for “total victory” over Hamas in a matter of months.
Rafah is currently the only crossing point between Gaza and Egypt, making it a crucial location for those seeking to leave the region. The situation in Rafah has raised alarm among international leaders, with top EU diplomat Josep Borrell describing reports of an Israeli military offensive as “alarming” and warning of catastrophic consequences for the already dire humanitarian situation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also expressed concern, referring to a potential “humanitarian nightmare” in the city.
Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, highlighted the growing anxiety and panic among the population of Rafah. He emphasized that any large-scale military operation would only lead to further tragedy. Recent Israeli airstrikes on Gaza resulted in the deaths of at least 15 people, including eight in Rafah.
The situation has left many residents of Rafah feeling helpless and uncertain about their future. Garda al-Kourd, a mother-of-two who has been displaced multiple times during the war, expressed her fear and desperation, stating that if an Israeli assault were to occur in Rafah, it would be the end for them as they have nowhere else to go.
The international community has called for the protection of civilians in Rafah while also urging against forced displacement. US President Joe Biden criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza, describing them as “over the top.” The US National Security Council emphasized the need for the Israeli military to prioritize the protection of innocent civilian lives.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in a significant loss of life. Israeli officials report over 1,200 deaths from Hamas attacks on southern Israel, while the Hamas-run health ministry states that over 27,900 Palestinians have been killed and at least 67,000 injured as a result of Israel’s response.
The situation in Rafah remains tense as civilians await their fate amidst the escalating conflict. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging for a peaceful resolution that prioritizes the safety and well-being of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire.