Israel Justifies Deadly Strike on Rafah

Israel has claimed that the airstrike conducted by its air force in the city of Rafah in Gaza, which reportedly resulted in numerous civilian casualties, was a targeted attack aimed at two high-ranking Hamas leaders.

The health ministry of the Hamas-controlled Palestinian enclave has reported that at least 35 people were killed and dozens were injured, predominantly women and children, in the Tel Al-Sultan neighborhood of Rafah.

Disturbing footage from the area, which was supposed to be a safe zone for displaced civilians, revealed extensive destruction as a tent camp was engulfed in flames.

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society has expressed concerns about the possibility of an increased death toll as many individuals remain trapped in the burning debris.

Videos have shown rescuers struggling to save badly burnt survivors and recover charred bodies from the ruins, while also attempting to assist the injured and combat the fire.

Al Jazeera has reported that although the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) had ordered a partial evacuation of the neighborhood earlier this month, three blocks were still designated as safe havens, leading people to seek refuge there.

The Israeli military has acknowledged the airstrike, asserting that it targeted a Hamas compound and successfully eliminated two “senior terrorists” who were allegedly involved in planning and executing multiple attacks that resulted in the deaths of IDF soldiers.

The IDF has claimed that the strike was conducted in accordance with international law, using precise munitions and based on accurate intelligence. However, they have also acknowledged reports of harm to civilians and stated that the incident is currently being reviewed.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ), the top judicial body of the United Nations, issued a ruling last week demanding that Israel cease its activities in Rafah immediately. The court expressed doubts about the effectiveness of Israel’s evacuation efforts and related measures in mitigating the significant risks faced by civilians in the area.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, following a surprise incursion by the Gaza-based group into the southern part of the country. This resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 individuals and the capture of approximately 250 hostages. The ongoing IDF operation to eliminate militants has led to the deaths of over 35,000 Palestinians, with a majority being women and children, in the enclave.