The ongoing operation of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Rafah has escalated from airstrikes to ground operations, as revealed by new satellite imagery. The images indicate that IDF forces are now operating over a mile outside of the Rafah crossing gate, beyond the immediate border crossing area controlled by Israel.
Prior to the ground operations, a series of military strikes were carried out in Rafah, with smoke from recent strikes still visible in one of the images. The aftermath of these strikes shows numerous buildings completely destroyed, some of which display signs of being razed by bulldozers and heavy machinery.
Furthermore, the satellite images captured the establishment of IDF vehicle mustering areas near the bulldozed zones, potentially serving as makeshift forward operating bases for the military forces.
These new operations in Rafah bear similarities to the initial ground invasion conducted in late October 2023 and in other parts of Gaza in subsequent events. The IDF's approach involves utilizing airstrikes followed by ground forces, including armored bulldozers, tanks, and other military vehicles, to carry out targeted raids and counterterrorism operations.
In response to the recent activities, the IDF released a statement on Wednesday, stating that they are conducting precise counterterrorism operations in specific areas of eastern Rafah. The operations have reportedly led to the elimination of terrorists, the discovery of terrorist infrastructure, and the uncovering of underground shafts in various locations within the eastern Rafah area.
