The Rafah border crossing has been closed due to the presence of Israeli tanks, according to a Gaza border official speaking to Reuters news agency. The Israeli Armed Forces have taken over the Rafah border crossing on the Gaza side, as reported by Israeli media outlets such as Haaretz and Reuters.
Rafah is situated on the border between Gaza and Egypt, and many civilians who have fled the war from other parts of Gaza have sought refuge in the area. Reports indicate that the Kerem Shalom border crossing between Gaza, Israel, and Egypt is also closed. Social media has shared videos of tanks in Rafah, and aid delivery to Gaza through the border crossing has been suspended.
On Monday, Israel issued an evacuation order for the eastern parts of Rafah, followed by numerous airstrikes. The United States and the UN have voiced opposition to Israel starting a ground operation in Rafah. Israeli forces have been situated east of Rafah since Monday evening, conducting searches in the area. At least five people were reported killed in Rafah by early Tuesday morning airstrikes, with others injured.
Hamas has accepted a ceasefire proposal to end the fighting in Gaza, but according to Israeli leadership, the proposal did not meet their demands. Despite this, Israeli airstrikes have continued despite the ceasefire offer. The possible terms of the ceasefire include a phased approach aimed at ending hostilities and prisoner exchanges.
The ongoing battles in Gaza have had devastating humanitarian consequences, leading to a significant loss of life and destruction of residential buildings. Reports indicate that over 34,700 people have been killed in Gaza, with the majority being women and children
