Israel forces announced on Wednesday that they have taken control of the buffer zone along the Gaza Strip’s border with Egypt. This move effectively grants Israel control over all of Gaza’s land borders.
In a televised briefing, Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari stated, “Israeli forces now have operational control over the Philadelphi Corridor.” This 14 km-long corridor was previously used by Hamas to smuggle weapons into Gaza. Though Hagari did not provide details on what “operational control” entails, an Israeli military official confirmed the presence of Israeli troops in parts of the corridor.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe southern border with Egypt was Gaza’s only land border not directly controlled by Israel until now. On Wednesday, Israeli tanks conducted raids into Rafah, marking the first time they moved into the city’s center. Despite an order from the International Court of Justice to cease attacks, Israel continued its operations, targeting areas such as Tel Al-Sultan and Yibna.
Palestinian health officials reported that 19 civilians were killed in Israeli airstrikes and shelling across Gaza. Haitham al Hams, Deputy Director of Ambulance and Emergency Services in Rafah, said, “We are receiving distress calls from displaced residents targeted by drones.”
Health Minister Majed Abu Raman urged the U.S. to pressure Israel to open the Rafah crossing for aid, as patients in Gaza face critical shortages of medical treatment.
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Israel’s National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi indicated that the fighting in Gaza would persist through 2024. He emphasized Israel’s aim to end Hamas rule and prevent further attacks. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Israel to develop a post-war plan for Gaza to avoid chaos and a potential Hamas resurgence.
The Gaza Health Ministry reported over 36,000 Palestinian deaths due to the Israeli offensive. The conflict began after Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, resulting in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and over 250 hostages taken by Hamas.
As the situation continues to escalate, international calls for a ceasefire grow louder, but on the ground, the violence shows no sign of abating.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
