Israeli forces are preparing to launch a ground assault on Rafah, a densely populated city in the southern Gaza Strip, despite international concerns about a potential humanitarian catastrophe.
A senior Israeli defense official confirmed that preparations for the operation are complete and that it could begin at any moment with government approval. The United States has strongly urged Israel to reconsider the attack, warning of severe consequences for civilians and the potential for a large-scale displacement of people.
According to Israeli officials, the ground operation in Rafah is intended to eliminate Hamas militant strongholds and secure victory in the ongoing conflict. Israel claims that Hamas has deployed thousands of fighters in the city and that their defeat is necessary to end the conflict.
The Israeli government has reportedly purchased 40,000 tents to accommodate civilians who may be displaced by the operation. The war cabinet is expected to meet within the next two weeks to authorize the evacuations, which could take up to a month to complete.
Egypt has warned Israel against launching an offensive in Rafah, stating that it will not allow Gazans to be forced across its border. US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said that the U.S. is in ongoing discussions with Israel about the operation and hopes to find a solution that minimizes the risk to civilians.
The ground operation in Rafah would mark a major escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has already resulted in extensive destruction and a significant loss of life. International observers are closely monitoring the situation and calling for restraint to avoid a humanitarian disaster.
