The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are conducting operations in Rafah in a targeted and precise manner, according to spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari. This response comes amidst reports of tanks advancing in the southern Gazan city.
Rear Admiral Hagari emphasized the presence of Hamas battalions in Rafah, citing recent attacks on Tel Aviv as evidence. He highlighted the firing of rockets from Rafah towards Tel Aviv, prompting millions of people to seek shelter in bomb shelters. Additionally, the IDF has identified tunnels along the Philadelphi Corridor leading to Sinai in recent days.
The IDF is actively engaged in demolishing these tunnels that connect Rafah to Sinai and is in communication with the Egyptian government regarding this matter. Eyewitnesses have reported Israeli tanks reaching the center of Rafah, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict.
Providing context, the Philadelphi Corridor is a 14-kilometer strip of land along the Gaza-Egypt border, approximately 100 meters wide. Israeli forces have taken control of the Rafah crossing within this corridor earlier this month, further intensifying the military presence in the region.
