KUALA LUMPUR – The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) has gained “operational control” of the Gaza side of the Rafah crossing that borders Egypt, despite Hamas accepting a truce deal hours ago.
Tanks and troops have moved into the area, reported the BBC.
An IDF official was quoted as saying that its special forces are “scanning the crossing and other areas”.
Currently, Egypt has closed the crossing and will only reopen it once the security situation allows it.
The IDF is also said to have started a “precise counterterrorism operation” in eastern Rafah, claiming the area is being used by “terrorists”.
Israel claims its military has so far eliminated 20 terrorists and found three tunnel shafts.
The strikes on Rafah have wreaked havoc on the city where 1.4 million people are sheltering.
At least 34,735 people have been killed and 78,108 wounded in Israeli attacks on Gaza since October 7.
The death toll in Israel since the October 7 attacks stands at 1,139. – May 7, 2024