The Israeli army reported a significant victory over Hamas forces in the southernmost city of Gaza, killing at least 550 fighters from the group. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that two out of four battalions of Hamas in Rafah had been completely destroyed, while the rest had reduced combat abilities. 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 the international community urging against a ground operation in Rafah to avoid a humanitarian crisis, the Israeli army entered the city which housed over a million refugees. The IDF’s 162nd Division lost soldiers in the operation, with some casualties due to attacks. Tel Aviv’s retaliation followed a previous raid by Hamas, resulting in numerous casualties on both sides.
The campaign in Rafah lasted over 40 days with the IDF gaining control of various areas in the city. The conflict between Israel and Hamas has been ongoing, with the two sides engaging in deadly confrontations resulting in significant loss of life.
