Israel urges Rafah civilians to relocate before southern offensive

Israel has announced plans to instruct approximately 1.4 million Palestinians, currently displaced within the southern city of Rafah, to relocate to central areas of Gaza in anticipation of a significant military operation aimed at the south. The initiative seeks to herd civilians towards designated “humanitarian islands,” which are set to offer temporary accommodation alongside essential services such as food, water, and medical aid. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the chief military spokesperson for Israel, outlined these measures but did not specify the exact timeline for the relocation or the commencement of the Rafah offensive.

This strategy arises amid humanitarian organizations expressing grave concerns over the potential dire consequences of military action in Rafah’s densely populated regions. Israel’s objective with the offensive is to dismantle four Hamas battalions it claims are operational in Rafah.

The conflict has severely impacted Gaza’s population of 2.3 million, displacing a vast majority into makeshift tent encampments. According to the United Nations, a significant portion of Gaza’s populace is facing starvation. Rafah serves as a crucial conduit for humanitarian aid entering Gaza.

The Health Ministry of Gaza reports that over 31,270 Palestinians have perished since the conflict’s inception. It is important to note that the ministry’s figures do not distinguish between civilians and militants, although it states that two-thirds of the casualties are women and children.

The hostilities were ignited by a Hamas-led incursion into southern Israel on October 7, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths, predominantly among civilians, and the abduction of around 250 individuals. It is believed that Hamas currently holds about 100 hostages.