GAZA CITY, Palestine – According to the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS), the city of Rafah in Gaza has been struck by a “violent” attack, resulting in numerous fatalities.
Witnesses reported numerous air strikes in the north and center of the city, but the Israeli military provided limited details about the strikes in southern Gaza.
International concerns were raised after warnings of an offensive in Rafah, where 1.5 million people are seeking refuge. The United Nations stated that there are no safe places for Palestinians in the far south of the Palestinian territory.
US President Joe Biden urged Israel’s Prime Minister to ensure the safety of the more than one million people in Rafah before proceeding with a military operation.
Israel’s allies, international organizations, and regional powers have voiced increased concern about the potential entry of Israeli troops into Rafah, which is located on the border with Egypt and is the primary point of entry for humanitarian aid.
The situation in Rafah has escalated as many residents are living in tents after being displaced from their homes by previous Israeli military actions. Additionally, the Strip’s Hamas leaders have warned of potential casualties and the impact on negotiations for the release of Israeli hostages held in the region.
The conflict in the region intensified after more than 1,200 people in southern Israel were killed by Hamas gunmen, leading to Israel’s military operations in the Palestinian enclave. The death toll in Gaza has risen to over 28,100 with more than 67,500 injured.
The call between the US and Israeli leaders highlighted the shared goal of defeating Hamas and ensuring Israel’s long-term security. However, concerns remain about the safety and support for civilians in Rafah, as well as the need to increase humanitarian aid to those trapped in Gaza.
The unpredictable situation in Rafah has left aid groups unable to evacuate everyone from the city, raising fears of potential humanitarian crises and a lack of safe areas for displaced residents. It’s a critical situation that’s caught the attention of the international community and raised serious concerns about the escalating violence in the region.