Israeli Airstrikes in Rafah Kill 13, Including Nine Family Members

Overnight Israeli airstrikes in Rafah have resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 13 individuals, including nine members of the same family, as confirmed by hospital officials and relatives.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has claimed over 28,000 Palestinian lives, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza. Additionally, a quarter of Gaza’s population is facing starvation amid the crisis.

These airstrikes followed US President Joe Biden’s caution to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against launching military operations in Gaza without a comprehensive plan to protect the 1.4 million Palestinians residing there.

Despite international concerns, Israel’s defence minister has reaffirmed the nation’s intention to proceed with a planned ground invasion of Rafah, emphasizing thorough planning for the operation.

Rafah, identified as a key Hamas stronghold in Gaza by Israeli authorities, has faced continued offensive actions. The city is currently home to an estimated 1.4 million Palestinians, many of whom are displaced individuals seeking refuge from conflict elsewhere in Gaza.

Reports indicate that Palestinians in Rafah are already fleeing the area in response to escalating Israeli airstrikes, seeking shelter in central areas such as Deir al-Balah, approximately 16 kilometres north of Rafah.

The dire humanitarian situation in Rafah, characterized by severe food shortages and limited aid access, has prompted international concern. UN officials highlight the vulnerability of segments of the population, including children and older people, to malnutrition and other health risks.

In a separate development, the International Court of Justice rejected an urgent request from South Africa for immediate measures to protect Rafah. However, the court reiterated the importance of Israel’s compliance with earlier measures aimed at preventing genocide in Gaza.

Israel has denied accusations of genocide in Gaza, asserting its efforts to minimize civilian casualties while targeting Hamas militants. The provisional measures ordered by the court followed a case brought by South Africa, alleging Israel’s violation of the Genocide Convention.

Hamas has called on the international community to ensure Israel’s adherence to the court’s rulings and to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The complex geopolitical dynamics and humanitarian challenges in Gaza continue to draw international attention and calls for diplomatic efforts to address the root causes of the conflict and alleviate the suffering of civilians.