Israeli tanks and troops advanced into the southern Gaza city of Rafah Early Tuesday morning, signaling a significant escalation after Jerusalem dismissed a truce proposal from Hamas, deeming it inadequate. The Israeli military confirmed conducting “targeted strikes” against Hamas positions in eastern Rafah, believed to be the group’s last stronghold.
Eyewitnesses reported Israeli tanks crossing into Gaza near Rafah, with some reaching as close as 200 meters from the Rafah Crossing terminal bordering Egypt. Gunfire and explosions were heard, captured in footage aired by Egypt’s al-Qahera TV, which depicted an empty Egyptian side of the crossing amid the military activity.
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According to Palestinian and Egyptian officials speaking on condition of anonymity, the operation seemed to have a limited scope, with assurances from Israeli authorities that troops would withdraw upon completing their objectives.
This incursion follows Sunday’s mortar attack by Hamas near the Rafah crossing, which resulted in the deaths of four Israeli soldiers. Additionally, Palestinians reported heavy airstrikes in the eastern part of Rafah, claiming the lives of at least five individuals. Despite international opposition, Israel has maintained military actions in the city, home to approximately 1.5 million Palestinians.
Although the offensive in Rafah raised concerns, a US official downplayed its significance as a major military operation. Meanwhile, Israeli officials refrained from commenting on the ongoing developments.
The decision to proceed with the offensive came after Israel issued evacuation orders for around 100,000 Gazans in parts of eastern Rafah, directing them to relocate to a designated “safe zone” near Khan Younis. Hamas, on the other hand, announced acceptance of an Egyptian and Qatari ceasefire proposal, which Israeli authorities deemed unsatisfactory.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office declared that the latest Hamas offer fell short of Israel’s requirements, prompting the unanimous decision to advance the military operation in Rafah. Netanyahu has long pledged to eliminate Hamas strongholds in the city, emphasizing the liberation of hostages and ensuring Israel’s security.
As Israeli forces moved into Rafah, support for a ceasefire echoed in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, where families of hostages and anti-government protesters called for an end to the conflict. Amidst the escalating tensions, the fate of the 128 hostages captured earlier remains a focal point of concern and negotiation.
