Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed regret on Monday for a “tragic mistake” made during a military strike in Rafah, a city in southern Gaza. This strike led to a fire in a tent camp, resulting in the deaths of at least 45 people, including women, children, and elderly individuals. Netanyahu assured that an investigation is underway to understand what went wrong.
The incident has drawn significant international attention and criticism. Even Israel’s close allies, like the United States, have voiced concerns about the civilian casualties. Despite this, Israel maintains that it follows international law, even as global courts scrutinize its actions. Recently, one court even demanded a halt to the offensive in Rafah.
The Israeli military reported that the strike targeted a Hamas installation and killed two senior militants. Unfortunately, this led to unintended civilian casualties.
Netanyahu addressed Israel’s parliament, emphasizing the efforts to avoid harm to innocent people and the need for a thorough investigation.
In another incident, Egypt’s military reported that one of its soldiers was killed during an exchange of fire in Rafah. Both Israel and Egypt are investigating this incident.
Rafah, located on the border with Egypt, has been heavily impacted by the conflict. Over a million displaced people are living in crowded tent camps. Israel continues its efforts to neutralize what it calls the remaining Hamas battalions in Rafah. Hamas recently launched rockets toward central Israel, though no injuries were reported.
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French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto called for an immediate ceasefire and respect for international law. Qatar, which has been mediating between Israel and Hamas, warned that such strikes could complicate peace talks.
Egypt and Jordan, both of which have peace agreements with Israel, also condemned the strike. Egypt called it a violation of humanitarian law, while Jordan termed it a war crime.
Israel’s military legal authorities are investigating the strike, along with other incidents that may involve violations of international law. Military Advocate General Maj. Gen. Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi highlighted that 70 investigations are ongoing, focusing on various issues, including the deaths of civilians and conditions in detention facilities.
Israel asserts that it has a robust judicial system capable of addressing such concerns. However, rights groups argue that investigations into violence against Palestinians are often inadequate. Despite allegations, Israel denies any accusations of genocide.
The International Criminal Court is seeking arrest warrants for Netanyahu and other leaders over alleged war-related crimes. Israel insists it strives to follow the laws of war, facing an adversary that does not adhere to such standards.
The conflict began after Hamas launched an attack on October 7, killing around 1,200 people in Israel and taking numerous hostages. The situation in Gaza is dire, with widespread displacement and severe hunger affecting the population.
Israel continues to emphasize its commitment to investigating any incidents involving civilian casualties and adhering to international law, despite the complex and challenging circumstances of the ongoing conflict.
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