Israeli Airstrikes In Rafah, Gaza, Result In 37 Fatalities, Caught Many Asleep

Amid airstrikes in Rafah, Israel conducted a special forces operation freeing two hostages. The strikes, according to local health officials, resulted in 37 deaths and numerous injuries. Residents, many asleep during the onslaught, expressed panic, fearing an Israeli ground offensive.

The strikes involved Israeli planes, tanks, and ships, targeting mosques and houses. While the Israeli military confirmed the conclusion of the strikes in southern Gaza, details were not disclosed.

US President Joe Biden advised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against initiating a military operation in Rafah without ensuring the safety of the approximately 1 million residents seeking shelter there. Aid agencies warned of catastrophic consequences if Rafah were assaulted, as it remains one of the few safe havens in the besieged enclave.

Netanyahu's office directed the military to devise a plan to evacuate Rafah and target Hamas positions. Hamas cautioned that such actions could endanger ongoing hostage-exchange negotiations.

Egypt expressed concerns over potential Israeli military action in Rafah, urging international and regional cooperation to safeguard the city.

Netanyahu justified Israel's actions by citing the presence of Israeli hostages in Gaza. However, Hamas warned against any ground offensive, fearing it would derail ongoing negotiations.

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Egypt called for united efforts to prevent Rafah's targeting, emphasizing the city's proximity to its border and the potential for dire consequences.

In summary, Israel's special forces operation in Rafah amid airstrikes has sparked concerns over civilian safety and regional stability, prompting calls for international intervention to prevent further escalation.