The Israeli army reported a major victory over Hamas forces in the southernmost city of Gaza Strip, killing at least 550 fighters from the group. The operation in Rafah resulted in the deaths of many Hamas fighters, with hundreds killed during raids on buildings and tunnels.
The IDF discovered large quantities of rockets and underground tunnels along the Philadelphia Corridor, including long-range projectiles aimed at Israel. There were at least 25 long tunnels leading towards the border with Egypt, potentially used by Hamas for weapons transport. The IDF also claimed control over key areas in Rafah, such as Brazil and NPK, where strongholds of Hamas were located.
Despite international community’s call for avoiding a ground operation in Rafah to prevent humanitarian crisis, Israeli army entered the city which housed over a million refugees. The conflict between Israel and Hamas has been ongoing for years, with deadly confrontations resulting in significant loss of life on both sides. However, Tel Aviv’s retaliation followed a previous raid by Hamas that caused numerous casualties on both sides.
The campaign in Rafah lasted over 40 days with the IDF gaining control of various areas in the city. Despite this victory, there is still ongoing tension between Israel and Hamas that continues to threaten civilians living near their borders.
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