The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have admitted responsibility for the targeted strikes in the Gazan city of Rafah on Sunday night, which resulted in the elimination of two senior Hamas terrorists. However, the IDF acknowledges that unforeseen circumstances, including the potential ignition of nearby weapons, contributed to a devastating fire that tragically claimed civilian lives.
IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated that the munitions used in the strike were too small to have ignited such a large fire independently. The investigation team is examining all possibilities, including the detonation of weapons stored in the compound adjacent to the Israeli target.
The IDF also released satellite images to illustrate their precision in targeting the intended structure. According to Hagari, the fire erupted due to unforeseen circumstances following the strike.
Prior to the Rafah strikes, the Israeli forces reported an incoming barrage of rockets from the area towards central Israel. The subsequent Israeli airstrike reportedly set ablaze a crowded tent camp housing displaced people in Rafah.
Approximately half of Gaza’s population resides in Rafah, the southernmost exit point from Gaza City bordering Egypt’s Sinai peninsula. Israel’s operation in Rafah has sparked international outrage, prompting widespread condemnation.
The IDF spokesperson expressed deep sorrow for the tragic loss of life, emphasizing that their war is against Hamas and not against the people of Gaza. They characterized the incident as a devastating and unintended event, with an investigation underway to determine the exact cause of the extensive fire.
Regarding the targeted Hamas leaders, the IDF spokesperson asserted their involvement in orchestrating terror attacks against Israelis and claimed that their deaths prevented further potential casualties.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Israeli tanks conducted probing attacks across Rafah for a second day, despite US objections to a major ground incursion. The US remains opposed to such an offensive but does not believe it is currently underway.
Israeli tanks reportedly entered the heart of Rafah for the first time on Tuesday after intense bombardment, defying an appeal from the International Court of Justice to end the attack on the city, one of the last remaining refuges in Gaza.
Rafah residents reported Israeli tank raids in various areas, prompting confrontations with Hamas and Islamic Jihad forces using anti-tank rockets, mortar bombs, and pre-planted explosives.
The Israeli military confirmed the deaths of three soldiers and serious injuries to three others during combat in southern Gaza on Wednesday.
