Fierce battles engulf Gaza’s Rafah

Israel and Gaza
Heavy fighting resumed on Wednesday between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants in Rafah, a city in southern Gaza. Witnesses reported nighttime clashes, and the Israeli military confirmed an airstrike on a rocket launch site.

Easing Bombardment
Israel’s bombardment of Gaza seemed to lessen after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the “intense phase” of the conflict was nearing its end. His defense minister was in Washington for crisis discussions.

Casualties and Aid
Civil defense officials in Gaza reported finding 15 bodies in Rafah. Another strike in Beit Lahia killed at least four people, including three children. Medics stated that Wednesday saw fewer attacks compared to previous days.

Humanitarian Concerns
An air raid on Tuesday resulted in the death of Fadi al-Wadiya, an employee of Doctors Without Borders (MSF), whom the Israeli military described as a significant operative for Islamic Jihad. MSF expressed outrage over the killing, stating it occurred while he was commuting to work.

Impact on Children
Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA chief, highlighted the severe impact on children, with an average of ten children losing limbs daily due to the conflict.

Food Security
While a potential famine warning for northern Gaza had not come true, around 495,000 people are facing severe food insecurity.

Future Operations
Netanyahu indicated that the intense phase in Rafah might conclude soon, with some troops redeploying to the northern border with Lebanon. Mairav Zonszein from the International Crisis Group suggested that Israeli forces might shift to ongoing operations in Gaza, maintaining a presence in strategic areas.