Israel is continuing its campaign in Gaza and has begun to strike in the city of Rafah, the last Palestinian enclave south of the strip. According to Israeli media reports, the Israel Defense Forces have intensified their operations in the eastern part of the city.
A statement from the Israeli Prime Minister's Office, reported by the Israeli press, announced that the war cabinet, composed of Netanyahu, Benny Gantz and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, unanimously decided to continue with the country's plans to enter Rafah.
Footage published by Palestinian media outlets purports to show Israeli strikes and flares over eastern Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. pic.twitter.com/UFTYKO7707
— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) May 6, 2024
The objective is to "exert military pressure on Hamas to advance our war aims: the release of our hostages, destruction of Hamas’s military and governing capabilities, and reality where Gaza does not pose a threat to Israel in the future." The same statement adds that the truce proposed Monday by Hamas did not coincide with the conditions proposed by Israel. However, the negotiations are not considered lost. Israel appreciated Hamas's response and discussions are underway to reach a truce at the same time that the military operation in Rafah persists.
The IDF has been carrying out light airstrikes in the eastern part of Rafah since Sunday, when it responded to rockets fired by Hamas at the Kerem Shalom crossing. This Monday, according to Gazan media reports, flares belonging to the IDF were launched over the city of Rafah.
Following this, as reported by defense correspondent Emmanuel Fabian, the IDF has reported that its troops have begun to hit and operate "selectively" in the city of Rafah to wipe out the terrorist organisation.
IDF spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari has already said that IDF aircraft have carried out strikes against more than 50 terrorist targets in Rafah. However, the IDF is expected to provide more information about its operation at a later date.
In the meantime, Hagari reiterated the importance for people in the east of the city to evacuate to Al-Mawasi and Khan Yunis, where they can receive comprehensive humanitarian assistance. "Water, food, medical equipment, and shelter will be provided," he said.
The IDF is currently conducting targeted strikes against Hamas terror targets in eastern Rafah in southern Gaza. pic.twitter.com/bmZgoNKXMB
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) May 6, 2024
US says attacks not part of major operation
A US official expressed concern about recent attacks in southern Gaza City. However, he noted that these Israeli actions do not appear to constitute a significant military operation.
Ceasefire talks to resume Tuesday
As Israel increases pressure on Hamas, the Qatari delegation continues to work towards an agreement that would make a ceasefire in the region possible. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al-Ansari confirmed that the delegation will be in Cairo on Tuesday to resume ceasefire negotiations, with the support of the United States.
