Israel has resumed heavy bombardment in Gaza, redeploying ground troops in Rafah and breaking a fragile truce that had largely held since January 19. On Sunday, the Israeli military called on residents in parts of Rafah to evacuate as they launched an offensive against militants in the area.
Military spokesperson Avichay Adraee announced on social media platform X that Israeli forces had begun an operation targeting “terrorist organizations” in the Tal al-Sultan district of Rafah. Leaflets with evacuation orders were dropped by drones, warning civilians to leave the area due to the escalating conflict.
The renewed assault comes after Israel halted the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza in early March and cut off electricity supplies, exacerbating the already dire living conditions for the enclave’s 2.4 million residents. The power cut has particularly impacted Gaza’s main water desalination plant, worsening the humanitarian crisis.
The military action follows failed negotiations to extend a ceasefire and secure the release of 58 Israeli hostages held by Palestinian militants since the October 7, 2023 attack. As the situation in Gaza deteriorates, international concern is growing over the safety of civilians in Rafah.
Sources By Agencies
