The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have taken operational control of the Gaza side of the Rafah Crossing, signaling a potential imminent ground operation in the city. The move comes despite warnings from US President Biden against such an action, citing concerns for the safety of over 1.5 million Palestinians who have sought refuge in Rafah.
The Israeli military has announced that its forces have taken control of the Gazan side of the Rafah Crossing, a key border point between Gaza and Egypt. The move is seen as a precursor to a long-promised ground operation in Rafah, the last major stronghold of the militant group Hamas in the region.
US President Biden has expressed concerns about the potential impact of a ground operation on the civilian population of Rafah, which currently shelters more than 1.5 million displaced Palestinians. In a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden reportedly warned against any action that could put the civilians at greater risk.
The Israeli Defense Forces have ordered an evacuation of Rafah, urging residents to move west. The move suggests that the Israeli army is preparing for a large-scale military operation in the area. The IDF has repeatedly stated that clearing Rafah is crucial to defeating Hamas.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has said that Israel was left with no choice but to act in Rafah after Hamas terrorists carried out a deadly rocket attack that killed four Israeli soldiers earlier this week. The IDF has launched "targeted strikes" against Hamas operatives in eastern Rafah, coinciding with the evacuation of residents and the expansion of humanitarian areas in nearby towns.
The war in Gaza has caused significant displacement and destruction, with around 80% of the territory's 2.3 million population fleeing their homes. The death toll in Gaza has exceeded 34,500, according to estimates from the Hamas-run Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants.
The conflict began with Hamas attacks on southern Israel in October, resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 people, mostly civilians. Israel claims that militants continue to hold around 100 hostages and the remains of more than 30 others.
The potential ground operation in Rafah raises concerns about further civilian casualties and the humanitarian impact on the already beleaguered population. The US has urged restraint and a focus on protecting civilians, while Israel maintains that it is taking necessary measures to neutralize the threat from Hamas.
