The United States has detected significant Israeli military movements near Rafah, foreshadowing a potential major military operation in this densely populated area of the Gaza Strip, sources have told the American broadcast network NBC's news division. The buildup, involving substantial troop deployments and armored units on the outskirts of Rafah, points to a strategic escalation that may soon transition into active combat phases.
US intelligence, corroborated by satellite imagery and on-ground reports, indicates that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have mobilized a considerable force, likely preparing to launch a comprehensive offensive into Rafah. The purpose of this buildup appears to be to counteract Hamas operations entrenched within the city.
Israel has helped facilitate the safe evacuation of 450,000 Palestinians, so far, from Rafah as it proceeds with its incremental operation to root out Hamas from the city. https://t.co/wc7zGNOwGJ
ā AIPAC (@AIPAC) May 14, 2024
Despite these ominous signs, it remains uncertain whether Israel has finalized the plans regarding the timing and extent of the operation. The Biden administration, cognizant of the risks, has cautioned Israel about the humanitarian implications of a full-scale assault in Rafah, home to over a million Palestinians.
This military escalation follows heightened tensions in the region, with Israeli tanks recently advancing into eastern Rafah, reaching residential areas. The move has sparked international outcry and urgent calls from global humanitarian organizations for restraint, fearing significant civilian casualties.
Hamas just boasted that it fired mortar shells at the Rafah border crossing ā again.
ā Israel War Room (@IsraelWarRoom) May 14, 2024
Where's the outrage?@UN @hrw @UNRWA @amnesty @WHO @StateDept @volker_turk @antonioguterres @UN_Spokesperson @TWennesland @WhiteHouse @UN_HRC @UNHumanRights
Adding to the international dimension of this crisis, the World Court is set to deliberate on urgent measures following a petition by South Africa, which accuses Israel of violating international conventions. This legal action highlights the global concern over the escalating conflict and its potential to further destabilize the region.
In a determined statement, Israel has expressed its intent to proceed with its Rafah operations, emphasizing the strategic necessity of neutralizing Hamas battalions that continue to pose a severe threat. The IDF has reported intense encounters with armed groups, underscoring the volatile situation on the ground.
Biden to Israel: If you don't invade Rafah, we'll give you the location of Hamas leaders šÆ
ā Dr. Eli David (@DrEliDavid) May 14, 2024
Israel: WTF?! You know their location and are withholding it?? š¤Æ
Biden: Nevermind. We don't really know their location, but made it up hoping you'd stop the Rafah invasion š¤”
_ pic.twitter.com/abzo0HJrRm
As the international community watches closely, the unfolding situation in Rafah remains critical, with potential consequences that could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.
