Jerusalem, Israel – The Israeli army issued evacuation orders to tens of thousands of Palestinians in the southern city of Rafah in Gaza on Monday. This move indicates a potential ground invasion in the area, despite ongoing efforts by international mediators, including the CIA director, to negotiate a cease-fire. Hamas has warned that invading Rafah could jeopardize peace talks, while the United States has urged Israel against such an operation.
Israeli officials view Rafah as the last significant Hamas stronghold after months of conflict and believe that an invasion is necessary to defeat the militant group. The army spokesperson, Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, stated that approximately 100,000 people are being directed to relocate to a designated humanitarian zone called Muwasi. While Israel is preparing for a “limited scope operation,” the exact nature of the military action remains unclear.
Amid escalating tensions, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant informed U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin that Israel felt compelled to take action in Rafah. The decision followed a deadly rocket attack carried out by Hamas from the Rafah area, resulting in the deaths of four Israeli soldiers.
The evacuation process is being communicated to residents through various means, including air-dropped leaflets, text messages, and radio broadcasts. Israel has expanded humanitarian aid efforts in Muwasi, providing essential supplies such as field hospitals, tents, food, and water. The military has also warned of using “extreme force” against militants in the region and urged civilians to evacuate immediately for their safety.
The plan to invade Rafah has sparked global concern due to the potential impact on over a million Palestinian civilians residing in the area. The densely populated city and its surroundings are home to about 1.4 million Palestinians, many of whom have already been displaced multiple times due to ongoing hostilities. The UN agency UNRWA has expressed fears of intensified civilian suffering and emphasized its commitment to providing vital assistance in Rafah.
As international pressure for a cease-fire mounts, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated the military’s determination to confront Hamas in Rafah. Despite calls to halt the conflict, Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s resolve to achieve its objective of neutralizing the militant group. Meanwhile, Hamas remains steadfast in its demands for a comprehensive end to the war, Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza, and reconstruction efforts in exchange for releasing Israeli captives held by the group.
Egypt, a key partner of Israel, has raised concerns that Israeli military actions in the Gaza-Egypt border area could jeopardize decades-old peace treaties. The strategic implications of a potential Israeli seizure of the border region or forced relocation of Palestinians into Egypt have raised alarms in the region.
Residents of Rafah received evacuation notices outlining designated areas and expanded humanitarian zones, prompting discussions among the affected population. Many express reluctance to relocate again after enduring months of hardship and displacement. Despite the challenges, individuals like Nidal Alzaanin and Sahar Abu Nahel grapple with tough decisions as they navigate the uncertainty surrounding the situation in Rafah.