International concerns mount as Israel escalates violence in eastern Rafah

RAFAH: At least 22 Palestinians were killed and several injured as Israeli military escalated violence during in assault in eastern Rafah, Gaza Strip on Saturday.

Israeli military attacks intensified following an order to evacuate eastern Rafah, sparking clashes and casualties on both sides. Reports confirm that clashes in Zaytoun resulted in the death of at least one Palestinian and one Israeli soldier.

Read more: Israel orders people in more areas of Gaza’s Rafah to evacuate

International leaders expressed “concerns” while issuing calls for deescalation. The President of the European Council affirmed the European Union’s (EU) commitment to seeking a comprehensive peace through ‘diplomatic means’. The president denounced orders to evacuate civilians from Rafah, deeming them unacceptable.

He called for a “lasting ceasefire” and demanded that the Israeli government respect humanitarian laws.

The German Chancellor Olaf Schulz also called for peace while calling on Israel to refrain from launching a land attack in Rafah.

Meanwhile, the United Nations (UN) officials renewed calls for a ceasefire in Rafah citing the ongoing deadly Israeli attacks. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees reported that around 110,000 people fled Rafah due to intense bombardment.

UN officials said there was an urgent need for a ceasefire to avert further bloodshed and restore aid deliveries.

The UN Secretary-General António Guterres also condemned an attack on a UNRWA facility in occupied east Jerusalem. He declared the attack as “unacceptable” and condemend the Israeli targeting of aid workers. He echoed concerns raised by United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) Commissioner-General about escalating violence against humanitarian agencies.

Across the Gaza Strip, humanitarian situation has worsened since Israel launched its Rafah invasion. The latest assault has hindered aid operations in the enclave. Israeli military closed all crossings leading into the city. This cut off vital supplies including food, water, fuel, and medical supplies.

Read more: US ‘working’ to keep Israel, Hamas engaged in Gaza ceasefire efforts

Health facilities are already strained throughout Gaza. There are reports of fuel shortages that is threatening the lives of patients.

The UN has also expressed concern over threats against the International Criminal Court (ICC) by Israeli officials. The international organisation called for respecting the ICC’s independence. It also condemned any threats of retaliation, noting that such actions could constitute crimes against the administration of justice.