Israel has launched ground operations in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, expanding from airstrikes to ground invasions. Satellite images show that Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are active outside the immediate border crossing area and have penetrated more than a mile inside the Palestinian enclave. Buildings have been bulldozed and mustering areas for IDF vehicles can be seen. The airstrikes have completely destroyed several buildings and killed at least four people according to a local hospital. There are ongoing airstrikes in the region, with smoke still rising from some locations.
The focus of Israel’s war in Gaza is on Rafah, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces pressure to launch a full-scale ground operation to destroy Hamas. More than 1 million Palestinians have fled to Rafah during the conflict, seeking refuge. Gazans began evacuating the city after Israel’s military issued a call for residents to leave. The satellite images show signs of bulldozed areas and disturbed earth. The current operations mirror the initial ground invasion of Gaza in 2023 and subsequent operations in other parts of the enclave.
The IDF stated that it is conducting a counterterrorism operation in specific areas of eastern Rafah, including targeted raids and the elimination of terrorists and uncovering of terrorist infrastructure. The IDF has released footage of operational raids on suspicious buildings near where soldiers were fired on by Hamas militants. The IDF reported the elimination of about 30 terrorists and destruction of terrorist infrastructure in the region. At least 35 people have died in Rafah since the ground operations began, including women and children. Aid agencies are warning against a full-scale ground invasion, as it would lead to more suffering and death for the displaced Palestinians.
Rafah has become the central focus of Israel’s war in Gaza, with constant airstrikes and now ground operations taking place in the city. Images show the destruction caused by these operations, with buildings being razed by bulldozers and other heavy machinery. The conflict has forced many Palestinians to flee to Rafah for safety, leading to overcrowding and displacement. The IDF’s operations are aimed at targeting terrorists and dismantling terrorist infrastructure in the region. The situation in Gaza is dire, with widespread famine and a high death toll due to the conflict.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in a high number of casualties and significant destruction in Rafah. The IDF’s operations, including airstrikes and ground invasions, have caused widespread suffering for the Palestinian population. The international community, including aid agencies, has expressed concern over the escalating violence and has called for a ceasefire to prevent further loss of life. The situation in Gaza is critical, with a large number of displaced Palestinians in need of humanitarian assistance. The conflict shows no signs of abating, with both sides continuing to engage in military operations.
