Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has authorized the commencement of a ground operation by the country’s military in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza.
Netanyahu confirmed on Friday that the Israel Defense Forces are currently in the process of preparing for the operation and the evacuation of the population in Rafah.
This decision comes despite pressure from U.S. President Joe Biden to exercise restraint. Earlier in the week, Biden warned that an Israeli military operation in Gaza’s southernmost city would cross a “red line,” urging Israel to prioritize the protection of civilian life before any offensive action.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu Authorizes Military Operation in Rafah (Credits: CNN)
Rafah typically has a population of approximately 172,000 people, but due to ongoing conflict and displacement, individuals from other parts of the Palestinian enclave have sought refuge in the city. This influx has increased the estimated total population of Rafah to about 1 million. Gaza itself is home to around 2.3 million people.
In response to a cease-fire proposal put forth by Hamas, Netanyahu and the Israeli war cabinet dismissed it as “unrealistic.” Additionally, recent military actions by Israeli forces included targeting the largest residential tower in Rafah, resulting in significant damage to the 14-story building.
Netanyahu (Credits: Philadelphia Inquirer)
The Israel Defense Forces stated that Hamas militants had been utilizing the Al-Masry Tower, labeling it as a “precisely targeted military asset.”
In an interview with Axel Springer, Netanyahu claimed to have the support of several Arab countries, although he chose not to disclose their identities.
He asserted that these nations understand and quietly agree with Israel’s stance, recognizing Hamas as part of the Iranian terror network.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to significant casualties among Palestinians, with more than 31,000 deaths and over 73,300 injuries reported since Israel began its military operation in the region. These figures are based on data provided by the Palestinian Health Authority.
