Israel Officially Moves Into Rafah Taking Control Of Border Crossing

Israel's offensive in Rafah is a move the U.S. strongly opposes and aid groups warn will be disastrous for some 1.4 million Palestinians.

Israeli military forces have officially moved into Rafah.

An Israeli tank brigade seized control Tuesday of the Gaza strip side of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt.

The area is the main route for aid entering the city and exit for those able to flee into Egypt.

Palestinian civilians fled to Rafah for safety after they were forced to leave their homes amid Israel’s attempt to take out Hamas.

The Israeli military said it is taking “operational control” of the crucial crossing because Hamas allegedly uses it for terrorist purposes. However, the Israeli military did not provide evidence to immediately support the accusations.

The move comes after hours of ceasefire negotiations were held Monday. It was said Israel insisted the deal did not meet its core demands.

Israel’s offensive in Rafah is a move the U.S. strongly opposes and aid groups warn will be disastrous for some 1.4 million Palestinians taking refuge there.