RAFAH, Gaza Strip. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas reached new heights on Sunday as Israeli forces continued their advance into the southern city of Rafah, while engaging in fierce battles with militants in the northern region of Gaza.
Considered Hamas’ last stronghold, Rafah witnessed a rapid exodus of Palestinians following evacuation orders issued by Israel. Approximately 300,000 civilians out of over 1 million have fled the city, amidst Israel’s mission to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of hostages taken in the October 7 attack.
Neighboring Egypt voiced strong opposition to the offensive, signaling intentions to support South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. Meanwhile, the United Nations human rights chief, Volker Turk, expressed concerns over the compatibility of a full-scale invasion of Rafah with international humanitarian law.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated opposition to a major military assault on Rafah, warning of the potential for prolonged insurgency if a comprehensive exit strategy and postwar governance plan are not implemented.
As the conflict intensifies, Gaza grapples with a vacuum in governance, allowing Hamas to bolster its armed wing, even in the most heavily affected areas. Recent attacks by Hamas near Rafah and Gaza City underscore the security challenges faced by Israeli forces.
Despite the escalating violence, Israel has yet to present a detailed postwar governance plan for Gaza, maintaining its intention to retain security control over the enclave’s population of approximately 2.3 million Palestinians.
Efforts to mediate a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages remain deadlocked, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing to continue the fight until victory. However, voices of dissent within Israel, including protests demanding an immediate ceasefire deal, highlight growing frustration with the ongoing conflict.
The conflict, which erupted following the October 7 attack, has resulted in significant casualties, including around 1,200 deaths, mostly civilians, and the capture of over 250 hostages by militants.
In the northern region of Gaza, Palestinians reported heavy Israeli bombardment overnight, exacerbating the dire humanitarian situation in urban areas like the Jabaliya refugee camp. The onslaught has prompted calls for urgent international intervention to prevent further civilian casualties and address the looming humanitarian crisis.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
