Israeli Forces Intensify Rafah Offensive, Seize Hamas Weapons Cache

Amidst intense fighting, Israeli forces raided a Hamas tunnel in Rafah, confiscating weapons and explosives. The assault has forced hundreds of thousands of civilians to flee their homes, raising concerns over a humanitarian crisis.

Israeli forces have conducted a raid on a Hamas tunnel in Rafah, seizing an arsenal of weapons and explosives. The operation was part of an ongoing offensive that has intensified in recent days, with Israeli tanks advancing towards densely populated areas in the city.

Wednesday marked one of the most intense nights of fighting in Rafah since Israel launched its offensive this month. Israeli tanks reached the edge of the densely populated Yibna neighborhood, but had not yet entered due to heavy resistance.

Israel's assault on Rafah, the southernmost city in Gaza, has displaced hundreds of thousands of residents, who had previously found refuge there. Humanitarian organizations have expressed alarm over the potential for mass casualties and famine.

The United Nations is working to establish new aid routes into Gaza after desperate crowds forced the suspension of deliveries from the US-built pier. The closures have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis.

Hamas's armed wing claimed to have attacked two armored troop carriers at the Egyptian border fence with anti-tank rockets. Residents reported that Israeli drones were firing into the Yibna suburb and had targeted fishing boats off the coast of Rafah.

The Israeli military reported killing several fighters in targeted operations in Khan Younis and the northern Gaza Strip. One of the casualties was identified as Ahmed Yasser Alkara, a key Hamas operative who allegedly played a role in the October 7 attack on southern Israeli communities.

In the northern town of Jabalia, Israeli forces continued their ground offensive, which has been ongoing for two weeks. Health officials and residents reported the destruction of residential areas and dozens of fatalities.

The Israeli military had previously withdrawn from the Jabalia area after claiming to have "dismantled" Hamas in January. However, it returned to prevent the group from re-establishing a presence there.

The ongoing fighting has raised serious concerns about the safety of civilians. International organizations have called for an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of humanitarian corridors to evacuate trapped residents and deliver aid.

According to Gaza health authorities, more than 35,000 people have been killed in Israel's assault on Gaza since October 7. The actual number is feared to be much higher, with thousands buried under the rubble.