In a dramatic escalation on Monday, the Israel Defense Forces called on residents of Rafah and nearby areas in the southern Gaza Strip to evacuate immediately. Civilians are urged to seek shelter at the Al Mawasi camp, designated as a humanitarian zone.
Avichay Adraee, the IDF Arabic spokesman, stated that the military is "returning to fighting with great force to eliminate the capabilities of terrorist organizations in these areas," signaling a renewed push against militant groups. This development comes amid growing pressure on Hamas, as recent reports indicate significant gaps in negotiations over a ceasefire-hostage deal.
According to Israeli media, while Hamas has reportedly agreed to release five live hostages in exchange for a 50-day ceasefire, Israel is demanding the release of 11 live hostages along with the return of half the bodies of the deceased. This stalemate has intensified the military campaign, with Israeli forces conducting extensive air and ground strikes across Gaza.
These strikes, which unfolded during the second day of Eid al-Fitr, have tragically resulted in numerous Palestinian casualties, including children, as reported by WAFA. The offensive, resumed on March 18 after a ceasefire that had been in place since January 19, has already claimed over 900 lives and injured more than 2,000 people. The broader conflict, which erupted in October 2023, now reportedly accounts for at least 50,277 fatalities and more than 114,095 injuries, according to Gaza health authorities.
As the situation evolves, the call for immediate evacuation underscores the urgent humanitarian needs of civilians caught in the crossfire. For globally connected young citizens and thought leaders tracking international developments, these events highlight the stark human cost and complex negotiations currently shaping regional and global security dynamics.
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Israel warns Rafah residents to evacuate ahead of an 'intense fight'
cgtn.com
