As tensions continue to escalate between Israel and Hamas, the Israeli military has begun a limited evacuation operation in Rafah, although specific reasons for the operation have not been disclosed. This move comes seven months into Israel’s war against Hamas, with ongoing threats of incursions into Rafah due to suspicions of harboring Hamas fighters and hostages.
The prospect of a potentially high-casualty operation in Rafah has raised concerns among Western powers and neighboring Egypt, which has been mediating truce talks between Israel and Hamas. However, efforts to reach a diplomatic resolution have faced challenges, with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant linking the operation to the deadlock in negotiations, blaming Hamas for refusing existing frameworks.
The evacuation effort in Rafah involves urging Palestinians in eastern areas to move to designated “humanitarian areas.” This comes after an overnight aerial attack on Rafah resulted in casualties, adding to the already significant toll of the conflict.
