Israeli Forces Seize Control of Rafah Crossing, Tanks Enter Southern Gaza City
Amid ongoing cease-fire negotiations in Cairo, Israeli forces seized control of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt on Tuesday. Tanks also pushed into the southern Gazan city of Rafah, raising concerns about a potential wider assault.
Hamas accused Israel of undermining the truce talks with this offensive. International aid agencies expressed concern over the closure of the two main crossings into the southern Gaza Strip, leaving the enclave virtually cut off from outside aid.
Civilian Casualties and Displacement in Rafah
The Israeli military stated that the operation in Rafah was aimed at targeting Hamas fighters and dismantling their infrastructure. However, the Gaza Health Ministry reported that Israeli strikes across the enclave had killed 54 Palestinians and wounded 96 others in the past 24 hours.
With over 1 million people seeking refuge in Rafah, the Israeli incursion has further displaced residents. Many are trying to leave, heeding Israeli evacuation orders, but with large areas of the coastal enclave already devastated, they have nowhere safe to go.
International Condemnation and Cease-fire Efforts
The international community has condemned the Israeli operation in Rafah, warning of potential civilian casualties and urging Israel to hold off the assault. Mediator Egypt and the European Union's foreign policy chief expressed concern that the incursion would jeopardize cease-fire efforts.
Despite the challenges, cease-fire negotiations continue in Cairo. A Hamas delegation is expected to arrive in Cairo to discuss the cease-fire proposal, while a team of Israeli officials will assess whether Hamas can be persuaded to shift its position.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The ongoing conflict has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The closure of border crossings has restricted the flow of essential aid, leaving residents with limited access to food, water, and medical supplies. The displacement of over 1 million people has further exacerbated the situation.
International organizations are calling for immediate humanitarian assistance and a lasting cease-fire to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian population in Gaza.