The southern Gaza city of Rafah is gripped by mounting fear and uncertainty as Israel announces plans for a military offensive against Hamas fighters. With more than 1 million Palestinians trapped in and around Rafah, aid agencies are sounding alarm bells, warning of the potential for a catastrophic loss of civilian lives.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed the military to develop a strategy to evacuate the population and target four Hamas battalions stationed in Rafah. The move comes amid escalating tensions, with Netanyahu rejecting a ceasefire proposal from Hamas just days earlier.
The United States, a key ally of Israel, has emphasized the importance of protecting civilians in any military action. Washington has reminded Israel of its obligation to adhere to international law, particularly regarding the use of U.S.-supplied arms.
As the situation in Rafah grows increasingly dire, concerns mount over the welfare of civilians trapped in the crossfire. The United Nations has called for the protection of Palestinian civilians, emphasizing that forced mass displacement is prohibited under international law.
Meanwhile, Palestinian authorities have condemned Israel's plans, warning that they threaten security and peace in the region. The Palestinian Presidency has accused Israel of attempting to displace the Palestinian people from their land.
Amid the escalating tensions, reports emerge of civilian casualties from Israeli airstrikes in Rafah. Hamas claims that at least 11 Palestinians were killed in an airstrike on a house, while earlier airstrikes reportedly claimed the lives of at least 15 people.
Israel maintains that its military actions are aimed at eliminating militant cells and infrastructure while taking precautions to avoid civilian casualties. However, Hamas denies allegations of using civilians as human shields.
In the midst of these developments, Hamas has proposed a ceasefire, offering to release remaining hostages and negotiate an end to the conflict. However, Netanyahu has dismissed the proposal as "delusional," signaling a continued impasse in efforts to resolve the crisis.