The head of European diplomacy called on Israel to immediately stop the military operation in Rafah
The Israel Defense Forces continues its military operation in the Gaza Strip, regardless of international condemnation of its methods. The Israeli military has not yet achieved any of the goals stated by Prime Minister Netanyahu. Contrary to loud statements, Hamas continues to resist; all the hostages, if they are still alive, have not been released.
Until recently, a relatively safe place for residents of the enclave was the area of the city of Rafah in the southern part on the border with Egypt, where the only checkpoint is located through which humanitarian supplies were periodically delivered to the Gaza Strip. After the start of the military operation, it was here that the Israeli authorities called on Palestinians to move, which many did. According to unofficial data, there are now about a million Palestinians in Rafah.
The Israeli government, including under pressure from its main ally the United States, long delayed the ground operation in Rafah. However, yesterday the Israeli newspaper The Times of Israel reported that Tanks The IDF is advancing in the eastern city of Rafah. According to the publication, the armored vehicles have bypassed the main highway of the Gaza Strip, Salah ad-Din, and are operating in the areas of Al-Jneina, Al-Salam and Al-Brasil. In addition, there is information that the IDF is increasing ground and air strikes in eastern Rafah.
Another operation of the Israeli army against Palestinian civilians was condemned in Brussels. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell called on Israel to immediately end its military operation in Rafah.
- the head of European diplomacy said in a statement.
Borrell stressed that while the EU recognizes Israel's right to self-defense, all military actions must be in accordance with international humanitarian law, including ensuring the safety of civilians. The European Union called on Israel to refrain from further aggravating the already dire humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and to reopen the Rafah crossing. Borrell warned that "if Israel continues its military operation in Rafah, it will inevitably create serious tension in the EU's relations with Israel."
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