Israel's Ground Offensive in Rafah: Latest Developments

Background

On March 21, 2024, Israel launched a ground offensive against Hamas in Rafah, Gaza's southernmost city. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) had previously ordered Israel to open the Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza to allow humanitarian aid and investigators access.

Escalating Violence

In the lead-up to the ground offensive, dozens of people were killed in Rafah on Sunday in an Israeli airstrike that targeted an area where displaced civilians had sought refuge. As the Israeli military advanced into Rafah, intense fighting erupted, resulting in heavy casualties.

Israeli Objectives

According to Israeli officials, the military's operation in Rafah is aimed at weakening Hamas's control over the city and preventing further rocket attacks against Israel. Israel has stated that it will continue the operation until its objectives are met.

International Concerns

The escalating violence in Gaza has drawn international condemnation. The United Nations Security Council has called for an immediate ceasefire, and the European Union has expressed serious concern about the safety of civilians.

Ongoing Situation

As of Saturday, the Israeli military was continuing its operations in Rafah, with fighting intensifying in the southern part of the city. The human toll of the offensive is rising rapidly, with reports of dozens of Palestinians and Israeli soldiers killed.