Israel has released footage of a targeted counterterrorism operation conducted in eastern Rafah, facing criticism from President Biden for moving forward with the attack despite the presence of over 1.5 million Palestinians.
Israeli forces have conducted a "precise counterterrorism operation" in eastern Rafah, releasing footage of their actions amid international scrutiny. The operation reportedly targeted Hamas terrorists and destroyed underground infrastructure.
Infantry units and armored vehicles were deployed during the operation, which took place alongside approximately 100 airstrikes launched across Gaza. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the ground operations have successfully eliminated terrorists and dismantled underground infrastructure.
The IDF stated that during encounters over the past day, troops have neutralized terrorists, exposed terrorist infrastructure, and uncovered underground shafts in the eastern Rafah area. The dismantling process for this infrastructure has commenced.
Simultaneously, IDF troops have initiated targeted raids near the Gazan side of the Rafah Crossing, based on intelligence identifying terrorist activity.
Over the past day, IAF fighter jets and aircraft have reportedly struck more than 100 terror targets in the Gaza Strip, including military structures, observation posts, launch posts, and other infrastructure.
This operation comes despite President Biden's request to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reconsider the attack on Rafah. Biden raised concerns regarding the potential risks to over 1.5 million Palestinians seeking refuge in the area.
Biden's administration has stated that a shipment of weapons to Israel has been paused due to concerns over the Rafah campaign.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant informed U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin that Israel had no other option but to act in Rafah after a deadly rocket attack from the area left four Israeli soldiers dead.
The counterterrorism operation in Rafah has further escalated tensions between Israel and the international community, including the United States.
Various international organizations and countries have expressed concerns regarding the potential civilian casualties and humanitarian impact of the operation.
The situation in Rafah remains volatile, with both Israeli forces and Hamas engaging in armed conflict. The long-term consequences and implications of this operation are still unfolding.
