The Israeli military has taken control of the vital Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt. This move comes following a night of intense air strikes and at a time when the prospects for a ceasefire deal remain uncertain.
Hamas announced late on Monday that it had accepted a ceasefire proposal from mediators, marking a potential turning point after seven months of conflict that has displaced over a million Gazans towards the southern enclave. However, Israel deemed the terms of the ceasefire inadequate and proceeded with a military operation in Rafah.
The military operation involved Israeli tanks and planes targeting several areas and houses in Rafah overnight. Palestinian health officials reported that at least 20 Palestinians were killed, and several others were injured in these strikes, which hit at least four houses.
Hisham Edwan, spokesman for the Gaza Border Crossing Authority, condemned the closure of the Rafah border crossing by Israel, stating that it has effectively sentenced Gaza residents to death by cutting off essential aid and collapsing the healthcare system, particularly affecting cancer patients.
The closure of the Rafah crossing, a major route for aid into the besieged enclave, was confirmed by a Gaza border authority spokesperson. This closure was attributed to the presence of Israeli tanks in the area, with Israel’s Army Radio announcing its forces’ deployment there.
Amidst these developments, the United States has urged Israel to hold off on launching a full-scale military campaign in Rafah until a comprehensive humanitarian plan is devised for the affected Palestinian population. However, Israel maintains that the majority of people in the area of military operations have been evacuated to designated humanitarian zones.
The displacement caused by the conflict continues to take a toll on Palestinian families, with many expressing uncertainty about their future as they endure repeated displacements due to the ongoing violence.
