The Israeli military conducted strikes on Al-Mawasi in southern Gaza early Thursday, targeting an area previously designated as a 'safe zone' by land, sea, and air, as reported by the official Palestinian news agency. The bombardment, which included navy boats firing heavy machine guns, took place in the coastal town west of Rafah.
These strikes come amidst a US-backed Israeli proposal for a ceasefire and hostage deal that has yet to be publicly committed to by either side. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have been contacted for comment on the Palestinian news agency report.
On Wednesday, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) received information from Israeli authorities indicating that fighting would continue in western Rafah. Videos showed Palestinians dismantling shelters and packing belongings in anticipation of a military operation.
Background on Al-Mawasi
In early May, the IDF instructed individuals in eastern Rafah to relocate to the expanded humanitarian area in Al-Mawasi, which was designated as a 'safe zone' as part of heightened operations in southern Gaza. The Al-Mawasi camp was already hosting displaced people before the additional influx from Rafah.
The United Nations has raised concerns about the suitability of facilities in the area for the hundreds of thousands of Gazans displaced by violence in Rafah and across the Gaza Strip. Recent reports from Oxfam indicate that over 1 million people have sought refuge in nearby areas such as Al-Mawasi, Deir al-Balah, and Khan Younis.
With more than 1.7 million people, comprising over two-thirds of Gaza's population, now residing in an area of just 69 square kilometers, the region faces significant challenges in accommodating the influx of displaced individuals.
