The Israeli army has ordered tens of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza’s southern city of Rafah to evacuate, hinting at a potential ground invasion, despite ongoing international mediation efforts. Despite warnings from Hamas and Qatar, Israel views Rafah as a crucial Hamas stronghold that must be addressed to defeat the group. This announcement follows a deadly rocket attack by Hamas from the Rafah area, which killed four Israeli soldiers, further escalating tensions.
Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, an army spokesman, revealed that around 100,000 people are being directed to move to a nearby humanitarian zone called Muwasi. While Israel characterizes the operation as limited, it refrains from confirming if this marks the start of a broader invasion. The move comes amid ongoing conflict dynamics and follows previous attacks on Israel’s southern region.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant informed U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin that Israel felt compelled to act in Rafah due to recent events. The evacuation orders are being disseminated through various means, including air-dropped leaflets, text messages, and radio broadcasts. Israel emphasizes its intention to use “extreme force” against militants and urges the population to evacuate promptly for their safety.
Israeli Army Asks People to Leave Rafah Before Possible Attack (Credits: NBC News)
Global concern mounts over the potential humanitarian crisis in Rafah, where over a million Palestinian civilians reside. The densely populated city faces the threat of further displacement and casualties amidst already strained living conditions exacerbated by previous conflicts. The UN agency UNRWA warns of dire consequences yet pledges to remain in Rafah to provide vital aid despite the escalating tensions.
The situation poses challenges not only for Palestinians but also for neighboring countries like Egypt. Egypt, a strategic partner of Israel, voices concerns over any Israeli military action that could jeopardize their decades-old peace treaty. Meanwhile, Palestinians in Rafah grapple with the prospect of yet another displacement, with many expressing exhaustion and frustration after months of devastation and uncertainty.
