Israel attacked Rafah on Thursday while U.S. President Joe Biden issued a stern warning regarding its military actions against Hamas. Biden threatened to halt arms transfers if Israel proceeded with its planned offensive into the southern Gaza city.
Despite international objections, Israel deployed tanks and conducted targeted raids in Rafah, claiming to target Hamas forces. However, these actions have also resulted in civilian casualties as the city is densely populated with displaced Palestinians.
Reports from AFP journalists indicated heavy shelling in Rafah, with the Israeli military targeting Hamas positions in other parts of Gaza as well. Biden, in an interview, emphasized that the U.S. would cease supplying weapons used in the conflict if Israel pursued its ground offensive in Rafah.
Earlier, Israeli forces seized control of Rafah's border crossing into Egypt, a vital entry point for aid into Gaza. The U.S. administration expressed concern over the interruption of humanitarian aid and temporarily halted a shipment of heavy bombs to Israel.
Despite these actions, Biden reiterated the U.S.'s commitment to Israel's security. The U.S., along with Egypt, is actively involved in ceasefire negotiations in Cairo aimed at ending the seven-month-long conflict.
Meanwhile, civilian life in Rafah has come to a standstill, with residents living in fear and anxiety. Disrupted humanitarian access has led to a dire health situation in the region, with hospitals running low on fuel, threatening to halt essential medical services.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas erupted following an attack by Hamas on Israel in October, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire are ongoing, with talks in Cairo involving various parties, including Qatar and the U.S.
In response to Israel's actions, Hamas has called for urgent international intervention to prevent further escalation and potential humanitarian crisis in Rafah. Analysts speculate that Israel's seizure of the Rafah crossing could be a strategic move to influence ceasefire negotiations or to disrupt Hamas' operations in the region. Israel attacked Rafah while U.S. President Joe Biden warned of stopping arms supply if Israel proceeds with its offensive against Hamas in the southern Gaza city.
Israel sent tanks and conducted raids in Rafah, claiming it's targeting Hamas, but civilians are also affected.
Biden stated he would halt weapon supply if Israel attacks Rafah.
Israel seized Rafah's border crossing into Egypt. The U.S. paused a bomb shipment to Israel over concerns of civilian casualties.
Ceasefire talks involving various parties are ongoing, but disagreements persist.
The situation in Rafah is dire, with limited humanitarian aid and healthcare resources.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has caused significant casualties, with efforts to negotiate peace ongoing.
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