The recent satellite images of large craters near the city of Rafah in southern Gaza following Israeli strikes have raised concerns about the safety of people displaced by the war who are sheltering in temporary structures. The images reveal that some of the craters are only about 130m away from rows of tents, highlighting the potential danger faced by these individuals.
The strikes, which took place on 12 February after the rescue of two hostages in an Israeli raid, targeted a district of Rafah where there are many plastic greenhouses and other nearby buildings. As a result, several of the greenhouses, as well as other nearby structures, have been destroyed.
What is particularly alarming is the proximity of these strikes to the areas filled with temporary structures housing people who have been forced from their homes. Israel has repeatedly advised Palestinians in north and central Gaza to move south for their own safety, but now the fighting has reached these very areas, putting the displaced population at risk.
Rafah’s population has significantly increased since the Hamas attacks in October, and it is now estimated to be home to 1.5 million people. The vast spaces in the city have been filled with tents, extending to the point where the main highway through Rafah has been blocked off to traffic. Furthermore, in nearby areas such as Al-Mawasi, where people were instructed by Israeli officials to take shelter, tent numbers have grown considerably in recent weeks.
The impact of the Israeli strikes in Rafah raises several concerns. Firstly, there is the immediate danger posed to the displaced individuals who are now living in temporary structures close to the strike sites. The potential for further strikes in the area could result in more casualties and damage to their already fragile living conditions.
Secondly, the destruction of greenhouses and other nearby buildings has implications for the local economy and livelihoods. Many individuals in Rafah rely on agriculture for their income, and the loss of these structures will further worsen their financial situation.
The images also highlight the urgent need for humanitarian assistance in the region. The growing population in Rafah, coupled with the destruction caused by the strikes, calls for immediate action to provide adequate shelter, healthcare, and support for those affected.
Moreover, the situation in Rafah sheds light on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The IDF claims to be targeting Hamas fighters who operate in the area, but the proximity of these strikes to civilian areas raises questions about the extent of collateral damage and the potential violation of international humanitarian law.
In light of these developments, it is crucial for the international community to closely monitor the situation in Rafah and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the displaced population. Efforts should be made to facilitate diplomatic negotiations towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict and to provide necessary assistance to those affected by the strikes.
