Red Crescent Reports Casualties Following Attack in Rafah

. At least 22 people, many of whom were displaced civilians, have been confirmed dead after tents in a humanitarian zone were struck. The ongoing search and rescue operations are expected to reveal more casualties.

Humanitarian Zone Hit

The Palestinian Red Crescent reported that the attack targeted Tal al-Sultan, a designated humanitarian area located approximately two kilometers northwest of Rafah's center. This zone was established to shelter civilians who had evacuated due to ongoing military actions. The organization highlighted the severity of the situation, with many victims still trapped under the rubble. The Red Crescent's information has yet to be independently verified.

Conflicting Casualty Figures

There are discrepancies in the reported death toll. While the Palestinian Red Crescent confirmed 22 fatalities, a spokesperson for the Hamas-controlled health authority suggested the number could be as high as 35, predominantly women and children.

Israeli Military Response

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged conducting airstrikes in Rafah, asserting the targets were key Hamas operatives based on intelligence reports. The IDF stated that the operations were in accordance with international law and that investigations are underway regarding the reported civilian casualties and subsequent fire.

Broader Conflict Context

The airstrike occurred amid heightened tensions, following a ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday, which mandated an immediate cessation of Israeli military actions in Rafah. However, compliance with ICJ decisions lacks enforcement mechanisms.

On Sunday, the situation escalated as Hamas launched rockets towards the Tel Aviv metropolitan area, marking the first such attack in four months. These rockets were reportedly fired from Rafah.