The Israeli army is preparing to launch an operation in Rafah, the far south of the Gaza Strip. The plan for the ground offensive has been presented to American officials and other agencies in the region. According to reports, the operation will be carried out in phases, dividing the city into defined areas. Before advancing into each area, the army will inform the population so that civilians can evacuate shelters and homes in time.
Two brigades of reservists have been mobilized to return to southern Gaza and continue the defense and attack mission under the command of the 99th Division. Additionally, two reserve brigades are being moved from northern Israel to the border with Lebanon. The IDF has approved the latest plan for the Rafah operation, despite previous suggestions for three different plans.
However, there is opposition from some quarters to entering Rafah without a credible plan to protect civilians. The US government has expressed concern about potential harm to civilians if an operation takes place without adequate safeguards in place. Israeli officials maintain that entering Rafah is necessary to complete their mission and potentially address issues related to hostages.
Three senior Israeli officials recently visited Egypt to discuss plans for entering Rafah with Egyptian authorities. They met with key officials including Cairo’s head of intelligence and addressed concerns about entering a city where many displaced Palestinians reside after fleeing other areas of Gaza due to bombings. Egypt has warned Israel against entering Rafah due to its potential impact on civilians.
As preparations for Operation Rafah continue, it remains uncertain when it will begin or what its ultimate goal is beyond addressing issues related to hostages held by Hamas militants.
In summary, Israel continues its preparations for Operation Rafah in Southern Gaza Strip with reports suggesting it may begin soon. The plan involves dividing