JERUSALEM, Israel – The tension between Israel and Egypt, both of which are close U.S. allies, has escalated as aid organizations warn of a potential humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This crisis is being exacerbated by an offensive in Rafah, where the U.N. reports that 80% of residents have been displaced and a quarter of the population is at risk of starvation.
During an interview with ABC News, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested that civilians in Rafah should flee north to areas cleared by the army. He also mentioned that Israel is in the process of developing a detailed plan to relocate them. However, the offensive has already caused extensive destruction, particularly in northern Gaza, and ongoing fighting in central Gaza and the southern city of Khan Younis.
Egypt officials have confirmed that they have threatened severe repercussions if Israel proceeds with the offensive in Rafah. Other countries, such as Qatar and Saudi Arabia, have also warned against the potential humanitarian catastrophe and tensions with Egypt that may arise from the offensive.
Furthermore, the United Nations has reported that Rafah, with a normal population of less than 300,000, is now accommodating an additional 1.4 million people who have fled fighting elsewhere, causing severe overcrowding.
In response to the situation, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasized the presence of Hamas battalions in Rafah and stated that entering the area is crucial to preventing Hamas from maintaining control. However, Israel has already ordered much of Gaza’s population to flee south, with evacuations covering two-thirds of the territory.
Recent airstrikes in Rafah have resulted in numerous casualties, including women and children. The Gaza Health Ministry reported a significant number of fatalities and injuries, bringing the total death toll in the strip to 28,176 since the start of the war.
The conflict began with a Hamas attack into southern Israel, resulting in civilian casualties and abductions. Hamas has called for the release of Palestinian prisoners and an end to the offensive, both of which have been vehemently rejected by Netanyahu. He has stated that Israel will continue fighting until achieving “total victory” and the return of all captives.