Israel- Hamas war: Netanyahu Says Rafah Airstrikes “Tragic Accident”, Vows To Defeat Hamas

In today's top story, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the deaths caused by an Israeli airstrike on Rafah as ...

In today’s top story, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the deaths caused by an Israeli airstrike on Rafah as a “tragic mistake” and announced that the incident is currently under investigation. The attack hit a camp housing displaced Palestinians and, according to local officials, resulted in the deaths of at least 45 people.

And now, this incident has intensified the growing criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza. In a speech, Netanyahu said, “In Rafah, we already evacuated about 1 million non-combatant residents and despite our utmost effort not to harm non-combatants, something unfortunately went tragically wrong. We are investigating the incident and will reach conclusions, because this is our policy.

Now let me take you some time back, The attack on Rafah, one of the deadliest in the conflict, has raised the total Palestinian death toll in Gaza to over 36,000, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The 45 dead include at least 12 women, eight children, and three older adults. Three other bodies were burned beyond recognition.

Israel has faced increasing international criticism over its war with Hamas. Even some of its closest allies, like the United States, have expressed outrage over civilian deaths. Israel insists it follows international law, but it is facing scrutiny in the world’s top courts. Last week, one of these courts demanded that Israel stop the offensive in Rafah.

Add India.com as a Preferred Source

In a separate development, Egypt’s military reported that one of its soldiers was shot and killed during a firefight in the Rafah area. They did not provide more details. Israel said it is in contact with Egyptian authorities, and both sides are investigating the incident.

Rafah, the southernmost city in Gaza on the border with Egypt, housed more than a million people—about half of Gaza’s population—displaced from other parts of the territory. Most of them fled again after Israel started a limited incursion earlier this month. Now, hundreds of thousands are crowded into poor tent camps in and around the city.

Netanyahu says Israel must destroy what he calls Hamas’ last remaining battalions in Rafah. On Sunday, the militant group launched many rockets from the city towards central Israel. The rockets set off air raid sirens but caused no injuries.

The strike on Rafah brought a new wave of condemnation, even from some of Israel’s close allies.

Qatar, a key mediator between Israel and Hamas in attempts to secure a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas, said the Rafah strike could “complicate” talks. Negotiations, which seem to be restarting, have repeatedly stalled because Hamas wants a lasting truce and for Israeli forces to withdraw, which Israeli leaders have publicly rejected.

As the investigation continues, the world watches closely, hoping for answers and a path to peace in the region. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.