Israeli Military Confirms Presence in Central Rafah Despite International Outrage
In a bold move, the Israeli military has confirmed its presence in central Rafah, defying international concern and anger over its military operation in Gaza’s southernmost city, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated on Friday.
The confirmation of IDF troops in central Rafah aligns with reports from eyewitnesses who observed tanks in the area earlier this week, marking the first time since the city was entered by Israeli forces earlier in the month.
According to the IDF statement, troops in central Rafah discovered Hamas rocket launchers, terror tunnel shafts, and weapons. Additionally, a Hamas weapons storage facility was dismantled in the area.
Israel’s establishment of “operational control” over the Philadelphi Corridor, a buffer zone on the Egypt-Gaza border, further solidifies its military presence in the region.
Cell phone services in Rafah were disrupted on Thursday due to the ongoing Israeli offensive, as confirmed by Palestinian telecommunications company Jawwal.
The incursion into Rafah in May marked a significant escalation in Israel’s conflict with Hamas in Gaza, resulting in a high number of Palestinian casualties and widespread displacement.
Over the weekend, an Israeli airstrike on a displacement camp in Rafah resulted in numerous casualties and global outrage, including the elimination of two Hamas leaders.
Despite the tragic events, US Vice President Kamala Harris expressed dismay, but neither she nor President Joe Biden have indicated a shift in US support for Israel.
The IDF’s confirmation of its presence in central Rafah coincided with the conclusion of operations in eastern Jabalya, where tunnels and weapons production sites were destroyed, and hostages were recovered.
However, reports from Gaza paint a grim picture of devastation in Jabalya, with entire residential areas destroyed and essential facilities demolished.
Israel’s renewed fighting in northern Gaza underscores the challenges it faces in dismantling Hamas, with a top security official warning that the conflict could extend into the next year.
Despite facing international criticism, Israel remains steadfast in its military operations, determined to achieve its objectives in the region. — CNN
