Preparations are underway within the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for an upcoming operation in Rafah following the conclusion of operations in Khan Yunis in southern Gaza, with the withdrawal of the IDF's 98th division from the area.
Sources within the Israeli Defense Ministry revealed to IANS that the withdrawal was strategically executed in anticipation of a ground invasion into the Rafah region.
Yoav Gallant, the Defense Minister of Israel known for his assertive stance, convened with senior officers of the 98th division on Sunday to deliberate on the forthcoming Rafah operations.
While Israel's allies, including the United States and other Western nations, have cautioned against initiating a ground invasion in Rafah due to the potential for significant civilian casualties, the IDF remains committed to its plans.
The Rafah region of Gaza is densely populated, with approximately 1.3 million residents, raising concerns over the humanitarian impact of military operations. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sissi conveyed his apprehensions regarding a potential Rafah operation to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during the latter's visit to Egypt in March.
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