Two months after Israeli troops invaded Rafah in the Gaza Strip, the city stands as a desolate ghost town. Once home to over 2 million people, Rafah now lies abandoned, with bullet-ridden buildings and rubble-strewn streets.
Israel claims to have nearly defeated Hamas forces in Rafah, which was identified as the militant group's last stronghold in Gaza. The military offensive has resulted in significant destruction, with hundreds of militants reportedly killed along with civilian casualties.
Israel accuses Hamas of using civilian areas to set up traps and tunnels, making the operation more challenging and intense. The military has been conducting operations with vigor to dismantle Hamas' military presence in Rafah.
Despite the ongoing combat, efforts to deliver aid to the region have been hampered. The closure of major crossings and security concerns have hindered the flow of essential supplies into southern Gaza, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
The situation in Rafah is dire, with thousands of displaced Palestinians living in squalid conditions in makeshift camps. Access to clean water, food, and medical care is limited, posing a grave risk to the vulnerable population.
As the conflict continues, the delivery of aid remains a critical concern. The lack of fuel is threatening essential services such as hospitals and water desalination plants, putting lives at risk.
Despite the challenges, Israel remains committed to its offensive in Rafah, aiming to neutralize Hamas' military capabilities in the area. The ongoing combat and security threats have made aid delivery a perilous endeavor, further complicating the humanitarian situation.
As the conflict persists, the people of Rafah continue to endure the devastating consequences of war, with no immediate end in sight to their suffering.