Israeli Defense Forces Gain Control of Gazan Side of Rafah Crossing in Counterterrorism Operation
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Tuesday that they have gained operational control of the Gazan side of the Rafah Crossing in a precise counterterrorism operation in eastern Rafah.
According to a statement released by the IDF, intelligence showed that the area was being used for “terrorist purposes,” prompting the operation aimed at killing Hamas terrorists and dismantling their infrastructure within specific areas of eastern Rafah.
Before the operation began, residents in eastern Rafah were urged to temporarily evacuate to an expanded humanitarian area in Al-Mawasi, where the IDF facilitated the expansion of field hospitals, tents, and increased water, food, and medical supplies. International organizations working in the area were also encouraged to temporarily evacuate.
During the operation, mortars were fired from the area of the Rafah Crossing toward the area of the Kerem Shalom Crossing, resulting in the deaths of four IDF soldiers and injuries to several others.
The IDF ground troops and Israeli Air Force fighter jets struck and eliminated Hamas terror targets in the Rafah area, including military structures, underground infrastructure, and additional terrorist infrastructure. About 20 Hamas terrorists have been killed, and three operational tunnel shafts have been found since the operation began.
Ground troops are continuing to operate against Hamas terrorist operatives and infrastructure in the area of the Rafah Crossing, with no timeline for how long the operation will last. It is unclear if the crossing is open for humanitarian aid at this time.
The IDF’s efforts in Rafah come as part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and ensure the safety and security of Israeli citizens.
