In a significant development in the ongoing war, Israeli forces pushed deeper into the southern city of Rafah on Sunday, accelerating the exodus of Palestinians from Gaza’s last refuge. This offensive comes as Israel continues to target the north of the territory, where some Hamas militants have regrouped in areas previously cleared by the military.
Rafah, considered Hamas’ last stronghold, witnessed a mass evacuation of civilians following Israel’s evacuation orders. Over 300,000 out of more than 1 million residents have fled the city, amidst Israel’s stated objective to dismantle Hamas and retrieve hostages taken in the Oct. 7 attack that triggered the conflict.
Egypt, a neighboring country, has strongly condemned Israel’s offensive in Rafah, expressing its intention to formally join South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. Meanwhile, United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk voiced concerns about the invasion’s compliance with international humanitarian law.
Internationally, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated opposition to a major military assault on Rafah, emphasizing the necessity of an exit strategy from Gaza and a postwar governance plan to prevent enduring insurgency.
The conflict has left Gaza without a functioning government, allowing Hamas’ armed wing to reconstitute itself, particularly in the hardest-hit areas. Despite ongoing mediation efforts for a cease-fire and hostage release, talks appear stalled.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to continue the fight until victory, while protesters in Tel Aviv demanded an immediate cease-fire deal. Netanyahu rejected postwar governance plans proposed by the United States, which depend on progress towards the creation of a Palestinian state, an idea opposed by the Israeli government.
The Oct. 7 attack resulted in around 1,200 deaths, mostly civilians, and took 250 hostages. Militants still hold about 100 captives and the remains of over 30.
Israel’s offensive, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, has claimed over 35,000 Palestinian lives, predominantly women and children, with Israel claiming to have killed over 13,000 militants. U.N. officials have warned of a “full-blown famine” in northern Gaza due to Israeli blockade.
As the conflict rages on, civilian casualties mount, and humanitarian crises deepen, efforts for a peaceful resolution remain elusive.
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