International Politics: Israeli Tanks Penetrate Rafah, Kill Gaza Health Officials

The Gaza Health Ministry reported that an Israeli airstrike on a clinic in Gaza resulted in the death of the head of Gaza’s emergency department. The Israeli military stated that the airstrike killed a senior Hamas military commander.

The Gaza Health Ministry said that after the death of emergency department head Hani al-Jaafarawi, the number of healthcare personnel killed by gunfire in Gaza has risen to 500.

Israel stated that the target of the airstrike was Mohammad Salah, who was responsible for developing Hamas weapons. "He commanded several Hamas terrorist groups dedicated to weapon development."

Residents noted that in Rafah, near the Egyptian border, Israel controls the eastern, southern, and central parts of the city. They continue to advance west and north, leading to intense fighting.

Residents reported that Israeli tanks have approached the edge of the northwest Mawasi humanitarian camp, forcing many families to migrate north to Khan Younis and Deir Al-Balah in central Gaza, the only place where tanks have not yet invaded.

Israel denies targeting civilians and accuses Hamas of inciting civilian casualties. The Israeli military stated it would continue "intelligence-based targeted operations" in Rafah to find weapons and rocket launchers and to kill Hamas militants.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the fierce fighting against Hamas will "soon" end, but unless Hamas no longer controls this Palestinian enclave, the war will not cease.