The Devastation of Rafah: A City in Ruins
Rafah, a city that once sheltered most of Gaza’s more than 2 million people, now lies in ruins. Two months ago, Israeli troops invaded Rafah, turning it into a dust-covered ghost town. Abandoned apartment buildings with bullet-ridden walls and shattered windows stand as a stark reminder of the destruction that has taken place. The city, once bustling with life, now only sees Israeli military vehicles passing through its rubble-filled 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 recently allowed international media to enter Rafah for the first time since the invasion on May 6. According to Israel, hundreds of militants have been killed in the offensive, along with thousands of women and children who were caught in the crossfire.
The Israeli military justifies its intense operations in Rafah by stating that Hamas turned civilian areas into traps, making it necessary to operate with such force. The military claims that Hamas built tunnels and other structures in civilian neighborhoods, using them as part of their terror tactics.
The situation in Rafah is dire, with an estimated 1.4 million Palestinians seeking refuge in the city after fleeing fighting elsewhere in Gaza. The UN estimates that around 50,000 people remain in Rafah, which was previously home to about 275,000 residents. Most of the displaced individuals have moved to a nearby “humanitarian area” declared by Israel, where conditions are extremely poor.
Efforts to bring aid into southern Gaza have been hampered by the Israeli incursion into Rafah. One of the major crossings into the south of Gaza has been closed down, while the other main crossing is deemed too dangerous for aid convoys. The lack of access to clean water, food, and medical care has created a humanitarian crisis in the region.
As Israel continues its offensive in Rafah, the delivery of aid remains a challenge. The UN reports that commercial trucks have faced difficulties reaching the city due to security concerns. The longer aid delivery is delayed, the closer Gaza comes to running out of essential supplies like fuel, which is crucial for hospitals and water desalination plants.
The deteriorating humanitarian situation in Rafah is exacerbated by ongoing combat in the city. Gunshots can still be heard in the area, prompting soldiers to restrict access to certain areas. Despite the challenges, humanitarian groups are working tirelessly to provide assistance to those in need.
As journalists depart from Rafah, they leave behind a city scarred by conflict and destruction. The road to recovery will be long and arduous for the residents of Rafah, but with continued support and aid from the international community, there is hope for rebuilding and healing in the future.