Netanyahu: Blocking Rafah Entry Means Losing War

In a forthcoming interview with Jonathan Karl of ABC News, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed plans for an imminent military operation in Rafah. He assured that measures would be taken to ensure civilians could safely evacuate, though he provided limited specifics on how this would be achieved.

Netanyahu emphasized the strategic importance of targeting Hamas factions in Rafah, considered their stronghold, stating, “Victory is close at hand. Our objective is to eliminate the remaining Hamas terrorist battalions in Rafah, and we are committed to achieving this.”

He further committed to facilitating the safe exit of civilians, adding, “A plan is being developed to ensure their safety.”

Netanyahu countered criticism of the planned operation by suggesting that avoiding action in Rafah would equate to conceding defeat to Hamas. He has instructed the Israeli military to organize the evacuation of about 1.3 million residents from Rafah, many of whom have been displaced from other areas and claim they have no alternative refuge.

The United States has cautioned that proceeding with such an operation without comprehensive planning could lead to catastrophic outcomes. Additionally, the United Nations, various aid organizations, and multiple countries have raised concerns about the potential effects on the civilian population.