Summary
- Israel dropped brochures warning Rafah residents in Gaza to evacuate ahead of a military operation on its eastern and southern borders as the conflict entered its eighth month.
- The operation included ground troops and aviation support targeting Hamas infrastructure in Rafah, claiming to eliminate key members and control the strategic Rafah crossing.
- Criticism emerged from the European Union and Egypt concerning the attack. Simultaneously, humanitarian concerns were raised as major crossings for aid into Gaza were blocked.
- The military action followed a significant conversation between U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, displaying Israel’s assertive policy irrespective of international views.
- Humanitarian implications are severe, with closures at Rafah and Kerem Shalom crossings significantly impacting aid delivery and the displacement of tens of thousands of Gaza residents.