The Israeli PM firm on rafah invasion. Amid escalating tensions in the Gaza Strip, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed his intention to proceed with plans to invade the city of Rafah. Netanyahu's declaration, made in an interview with ABC News, underscores Israel's determination to extend its military operations despite mounting international alarm. "We're going to do it," Netanyahu declared, emphasizing the ongoing development of plans for the assault.
"We're going to do it while providing safe passage for the civilian population so they can leave," Netanyahu stated.
However, the destination for the displaced remains uncertain. Netanyahu emphasized they are "working out a detailed plan" and pointed to cleared areas north of Rafah.
Concerns loom over the fate of the estimated 1.4 million Palestinians residing in Rafah, as Israel is yet to unveil strategies for protecting civilians amidst the impending assault.
The United States, a key ally of Israel, has expressed reservations about the proposed ground assault on Rafah. The Biden administration has cautioned against the plan, emphasizing the need to prioritize the safety of civilians in the region. Meanwhile, the European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, echoed concerns that an invasion of Rafah could lead to a "humanitarian catastrophe" and exacerbate tensions with Egypt.
Egypt, a crucial player in the conflict, has vehemently opposed Israel's plans, fearing the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians into the Sinai Peninsula. Cairo has underscored the potential threat to its decades-old peace treaty with Israel, warning of grave consequences if Israeli troops deploy near its borders.
The situation in Rafah is further complicated by Hamas's presence and the intricate network of tunnels in the area, some of which extend into Egyptian territory. Mamoun Abu Nowar, a retired general of the Jordanian air force, warns of the formidable challenge of neutralizing these tunnels, highlighting the potential for protracted conflict and extensive collateral damage.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini has sounded the alarm, expressing grave concerns about the looming humanitarian crisis in Rafah. The densely populated city, already ravaged by years of conflict, faces an uncertain future as the specter of military intervention looms large.
The prospect of a ground offensive in Rafah has exacerbated tensions between Israel and the United States. A senior Biden administration official has revealed a "growing divide" between the two nations, particularly concerning the handling of the conflict.
The White House and State Department have reiterated their stance against supporting an Israeli operation in Rafah without comprehensive plans to safeguard civilian lives.
As Israel remains resolute in its determination to proceed with the invasion, the international community watches with bated breath, apprehensive of the potential fallout and humanitarian consequences of escalating hostilities in Rafah.