As tensions rise between Israel and Hamas, the Israeli army is urging residents of eastern neighborhoods in Rafah in the Gaza Strip to evacuate to humanitarian areas. The IDF is expanding the humanitarian zone in Al-Mawasi and calling on civilians to leave the eastern neighborhoods of Rafah to the expanded zone, which includes field hospitals, tents, and supplies like food and water. This evacuation operation is being described as limited in scope, affecting around 100,000 people.
There have been ultimatums issued to Hamas by Israel, setting a deadline for a ceasefire agreement by May 10 or else an offensive on Rafah will begin. Talks about a truce have become tense over the weekend, leading to international mediators planning an emergency meeting in Qatar to try and resolve the situation. Despite pressure from various parties, including NGOs and world capitals, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been vocal about launching a major military offensive on Rafah to achieve “final victory.”
Rafah not only serves as a densely populated area but also plays a crucial role as a land crossing point for humanitarian aid that is strictly controlled by Israel. An offensive on Rafah could severely impact humanitarian operations according to warnings from the UN. The situation remains tense as negotiations continue between Israel and Hamas with the potential for significant escalation of conflict.
