The Brussels International Center (BIC) expresses its profound concern over the escalating violence in Rafah, Gaza’s south, where Israel's intensifying military operations have led to significant civilian casualties and widespread panic. The recent Israeli strikes have tragically led to the loss of civilian lives, and left dozens injured, as reported by Dr. Marwan al-Hams from the Abu Youssef al-Najjar Hospital. The targeting of residential areas, including two mosques and several houses, during these operations is deeply alarming. This situation is further exacerbated by reports of Israeli snipers causing casualties at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis.
Of particular concern is the safety of hundreds of thousands of displaced Gazans taking refuge in Rafah. The BIC is deeply troubled by reports indicating that the number of individuals killed in just one night of bombing may be significantly higher than the initial estimates of nearly 100 casualties. The fact that nearly half of Gaza's population has sought shelter in Rafah underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive and effective civilian protection plan. UN agencies and other humanitarian organisations are warning about an upcoming catastrophic situation leading to famine and further deterioration of public health. Adequate supply of humanitarian assistance remains blocked from entering the enclave.
While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has articulated the objective of the Rafah operation as freeing more captives from Gaza, and despite Israel's call for UN relief agencies to assist in evacuating civilians from war zones, the absence of a clear and effective strategy to safeguard civilians is not only deeply troubling, but also indicative of a grievous disregard for the principles of international humanitarian law. Furthermore, the apparent indifference and inaction of some major international actors like the US and some member states of the EU in exerting substantial pressure on this issue is deeply disconcerting. Their reluctance to firmly address and challenge the conduct of the Israeli leadership in this crisis not only demonstrates a troubling abdication of moral responsibility but also undermines the principles of international diplomacy and human rights advocacy.
The Brussels International Center urges all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians and adhere strictly to international humanitarian law. We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the implementation of a robust plan to ensure civilian safety, and a concerted international effort, including significant involvement from the US and the EU, to seek a peaceful resolution to this conflict. The ongoing violence, destruction, and the potential for further civilian casualties in densely populated areas like Rafah cannot be overlooked. The BIC will continue to monitor the situation closely and advocate vigorously for the rights and safety of all affected individuals.