Israel Launches Assault on Rafah Despite International Warnings
BRUSSELS — In a move that has sparked concern and condemnation from the international community, Israel has initiated a full-blown assault on Rafah in the Gaza Strip. EU’s foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has issued a stark warning about the dire consequences for the hundreds of thousands of civilians seeking shelter in the area.
Speaking to the press, Borrell expressed his disappointment at the breakdown of a ceasefire deal that was initially accepted by Hamas but rejected by Israel. “Hamas accepted, Israel rejected, and the land offensive against Rafah has started again,” Borrell lamented. Despite calls from various international bodies, including the US and EU member states, urging Israel to refrain from attacking Rafah, the offensive began last night.
Israel’s military forces have taken “operational control” of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt, signaling a significant escalation in the conflict. Civilians in Rafah were previously advised to evacuate to the southern part of the city for safety, but even those areas have not been spared from devastating airstrikes and ground attacks by Israeli forces.
With approximately 1.4 million people now trapped in Rafah with limited means of escape, the humanitarian situation is rapidly deteriorating. The blockage of essential supplies and destruction of medical facilities have exacerbated the crisis, as Israel justifies its offensive as a necessary measure against Hamas.
Borrell expressed grave concerns about the potential for civilian casualties, particularly among the 600,000 children in Gaza. He emphasized the lack of true safe zones in the region and called for increased support from the international community to address the unfolding crisis.
Additionally, Borrell highlighted the importance of resuming European financial support to UNRWA, the primary UN agency assisting displaced Palestinians. Despite previous funding cuts due to allegations of staff involvement in Hamas activities, a recent review confirmed the agency’s commitment to neutrality and humanitarian aid.
While Borrell refrained from discussing potential sanctions against Israel, he underscored the urgent need to mitigate the escalating humanitarian crisis in Rafah. As the conflict intensifies, the EU is preparing to address the political dimensions of the crisis and explore avenues for intervention in the coming Council meetings.
“The looming humanitarian losses are a cause for deep concern,” Borrell warned. “We must act swiftly to prevent further escalation and alleviate the suffering of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire.”
