Israel’s military has announced a “limited scope” operation in Rafah, encouraging residents to evacuate the southern Gaza city on Monday 6 May. Israel claims that thousands of Hamas fighters reside in Rafah, making it a crucial target for their offensive. However, with over a million displaced Palestinians seeking refuge there, Western powers and Egypt have expressed concerns over potential casualties. The Israeli military has called on Palestinians residing in the eastern parts of Rafah to relocate to a nearby “humanitarian area.” It is estimated that approximately 100,000 individuals will need to be relocated in this limited-scale evacuation. Reports from Israeli broadcaster Army Radio suggest that evacuations are primarily focused on peripheral districts of Rafah, with evacuees being directed to tent cities in nearby Khan Younis and Al Muwassi. The US’ Biden administration has expressed deep concern over the possibility of an Israeli military invasion in Rafah, given the significant number of displaced Palestinians seeking shelter there. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated his intention to order an invasion of Rafah, regardless of ongoing negotiations for the release of hostages in Gaza and a potential ceasefire. As Israel’s forces continue…
Israel Calls for Evacuation of Rafah as Fears of Ground Assault Rise
May 6, 2024
By Belal Nawar
Senior Journalist
