While the prospect has loomed large for months, Israeli tanks have now wrested control of the border crossing in Rafah, a Palestinian city in the Gaza Strip. Israel alleges that Hamas has been using the border crossing to facilitate terrorist activity. The invasion in Rafah, though limited, may jeopardize any progress recently made toward establishing a ceasefire agreement.
Rafah Border Crossing
The border crossing in Rafah, in southern Gaza, is a pivotal access point for humanitarian efforts. The area has also remained a significant point of contention in the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel. This move by Israel also heightens tensions as a ceasefire negotiation is underway between the two sides, with stakes at one of the highest points in the six-month conflict.
Aerial Footage Released
Israel released footage showing Israeli Defense Force (IDF) tanks moving through the area. The video also documented an Israeli flag at the checkpoint, staking the claim for Israeli control of the site.
International Reactions and Warnings
For months, the United States and other allies have put pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to be conservative and limited in its front in Rafah so as not to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis. This move by Israel defied the pressures from the West and is largely seen as an escalation of tensions between Hamas and Israel.
Humanitarian Impact
By claiming the crossing in Rafah, Israel now controls a major avenue for transport of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Civilian Casualties
The IDF has stated that its mission in Rafah is focused on targeting the presence of Hamas in the city. At least 23 Palestinians are reported to have died in the most recent military actions. It is unknown how many are affiliated with Hamas.
U.S. Position
The U.S. continues to support efforts toward a ceasefire agreement. Prior to the invasion of the border crossing in Rafah, President Biden had spoken in no uncertain terms with Netanyahu, urging the Israeli leader to only act in targeted and restrained military actions in the region so as not to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis there.
Egyptian and Regional Concerns
If Israel were to engage in a full-scale front in Rafah, the action would also jeopardize the regional stability with other neighboring countries, specifically Egypt, which has in the past acted to mediate a ceasefire agreement.
Israeli Justification
Israel claims that it seized the border crossing to prevent it from being used by Hamas. Israel makes the claim that Hamas has been using the crossing area for terrorist activities but has not provided proof at this time.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
Even as the Israeli takeover of the border crossing in Rafah is underway, Hamas and Israel continue to negotiate a ceasefire agreement with the assistance of Qatar and Egypt as mediators.
White House Involvement
In addition to Qatar and Egypt, the U.S. has also been involved in ceasefire negotiations through Central Intelligence Agency chief William Burns. Burns has been successful in crafting terms that Hamas has signaled interest in adopting. All actions by the U.S. are aimed at de-escalating the conflict over a period of different phases.
Proposal Details
The first phase would see a release of some hostages from Hamas alongside a gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops. Also included in the ceasefire agreement would be humanitarian relief provisions. The multi-level concessions would address both immediate humanitarian needs and hostage release while allowing the sides to work toward a longer-term sustainable peace.
Hamas Demands
For its part, Hamas requires Israel to withdraw completely from Gaza and end the war completely before all hostages will be released.
Future Prospects
While the invasion of Rafah’s border crossing is seen as an escalation in the conflict, it has not ended the ceasefire talks and negotiations. All neighboring nations, as well as the U.S. and other Western interests, are represented as Hamas and Israel seek a lasting agreement and framework to achieve their objectives.
