The Israeli military has ordered a large-scale evacuation of tens of thousands of residents in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, hinting at a possible imminent ground invasion. This move comes as ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas have hit a roadblock, leading to concerns of a worsening conflict.
Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire, led by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, have been hindered by recent violence, including a rocket attack that killed four Israeli soldiers. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated his intention to send ground forces into Rafah to combat Hamas fighters, despite objections from the US and other allies over the potential humanitarian crisis that could ensue.
The Norwegian Refugee Council has criticized Israel’s evacuation order as “forced” and “unlawful”, warning that it could escalate the conflict to a deadly new level. With limited resources in the designated humanitarian zone, concerns are mounting over the well-being of the displaced population in Rafah.
Hamas has called for urgent intervention from the international community to protect civilians in Rafah, as Israel continues its offensive on what is seen as a key Hamas stronghold. The ongoing war in Gaza has already displaced a staggering 80 percent of the population, with widespread destruction in many areas and a rising death toll that has disproportionately affected women and children.
The situation in Gaza remains dire as the conflict shows no signs of abating, with both sides showing a willingness to escalate tensions despite international calls for peace.