28 May 2024: In a severe escalation of violence, at least 40 people were killed and numerous others injured on Sunday evening as Israeli airstrikes targeted a refugee camp in Rafah, Gaza. The attack reportedly involved eight rockets aimed at tents sheltering thousands of displaced individuals near the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) warehouses.
Local sources, including the Palestinian official news agency WAFA, described the strike as “severe and unprecedented,” with flames engulfing plastic and tin tents, as well as civilian vehicles. Videos shared on social media depicted intense fires consuming the area, complicating rescue efforts by Civil Defense and ambulance crews due to the challenging terrain.
The attack follows an earlier large-scale rocket barrage launched from Rafah towards Tel Aviv by Hamas’ armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed the strike targeted a Hamas compound used by significant operatives, asserting it was a legitimate military target under international law.
Hamas condemned the bombing, highlighting the International Court of Justice’s recent decision demanding an end to Israeli aggression against Rafah. The area had been designated as a “safe zone” by Israeli authorities prior to the attack, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis for displaced Gazans.
In a broader context, the ongoing conflict has seen extensive military actions and rising casualties. Israel views Rafah as a Hamas stronghold, tightening control over the area and halting humanitarian aid. The international community continues to call for a ceasefire and humanitarian relief amid escalating hostilities.
