The Israel Defense Forces have issued a call for civilians residing in eastern Rafah to relocate to what they’ve designated as an expanded humanitarian area. This move has sparked concerns as it’s seen as a potential precursor to a ground invasion of the southern Gaza city, which currently shelters over 1.4 million civilians.
Approximately 100,000 individuals from eastern Rafah are reportedly affected by this evacuation notice, according to an IDF spokesperson. Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, in a media briefing, declined to specify the duration given for civilians to evacuate under this morning’s order. He emphasized that the designated humanitarian zone is intended to offer a safer environment for civilians, although the IDF maintains the right to target Hamas within the area.
The prospect of a ground offensive in Rafah has drawn widespread condemnation internationally. United Nations officials have warned that such an action would likely escalate civilian casualties and exacerbate the existing humanitarian crisis in the region.
Meanwhile, efforts to broker a ceasefire seem to have hit an impasse following initial optimism for a potential agreement to avert an offensive in Rafah and secure the release of hostages held in Gaza.
