Waves of refugees flee Rafah

By Nathan Morley

Reports from Rafah in southern Gaza say that Israeli forces have reached the center of the beleaguered city.

There has been no sign of a let-up in Israel’s military campaign. In fact, in the last few days, it has intensified its operations and now tanks are reportedly near the city centre.

Officials in Gaza say at least 16 people were killed overnight. 

On Sunday, Israel received international condemnation after bombing Rafah in an attack which medics claim killed 45 people.

The attack ignited a tent camp for displaced people causing a deadly fire which raged for hours. Speaking in Jerusalem, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the attack as a ‘tragic mishap’.

Later, the United Nations Security Council is expected to convene an emergency meeting to discuss the incident.

Now, as the situation worsens, hundreds of Palestinian families have taken flight from Rafah to escape some of the heaviest bombardments so far.

Around one million people have fled the city in the last three weeks, according to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.

Recognition of Palestinian State

In a separate development, Norway and Spain have formally recognized Palestine as a state. 

The Norwegian Foreign Minister said the move sent a strong signal of support to ‘moderate forces’ in both Israel and Palestine. Ireland is also recognizing the Palestinian state. 

The Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez, says by recognizing Palestine as a state, Spain is helping to move the Middle East toward a more peaceful future.