Israel will expand its military operation against Hamas in Rafah, claiming that 1 million civilians have fled the southern Gaza city, writes the American publication Stars and Stripes on May 23.
“We are intensifying the campaign in Rafah; this operation will be expanded, with more forces on the ground and more forces in the air.”said Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on May 23.
Israel is acting with caution and precision, added military spokesman Daniel Hagari, given concerns previously expressed by the United States and other allies about the threat to local populations.
The move comes after Israel said it would resume stalled ceasefire talks with Hamas after a video on social media showing the kidnapping of female Israeli soldiers sparked a public outcry, the newspaper said.
The images served as a reminder in Israel of the hostages who remain captive in Gaza after being kidnapped during the October 7 Hamas attacks that sparked the ongoing conflict.
Israel said it needed to invade Rafah to achieve its goal of destroying Hamas.
The town, near the border with Egypt, has become a refuge for Palestinian civilians fleeing war elsewhere in Gaza, and the campaign has become a topic of discussion during peace talks.
Source: Rossa Primavera
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