Canada, Australia and New Zealand warn Israel against ground incursion in Gaza

Leaders from Canada, Australia, and New Zealand have issued a stark warning against Israel's proposed ground incursion into Rafah, a city in the southern part of Gaza, branding it a "catastrophic" action.

In a rare joint statement, they appealed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire, emphasizing the severe risks of proceeding with the military operation.

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The statement highlighted the dire situation in Rafah, where approximately 1.5 million Palestinians are currently seeking refuge amid escalating violence.

"A military operation into Rafah would be catastrophic," the leaders stated, pointing out the lack of alternatives for civilian evacuation in the densely populated area.

This cautionary plea comes shortly after Israel announced its intentions for a ground offensive in Rafah, described by Netanyahu as "the last bastion" of Hamas's stronghold.

The move marks a significant escalation in Israel's military strategy in Gaza, with Rafah being one of the few remaining safe havens for civilians fleeing the conflict.

Before the conflict, Rafah's population was about 250,000, but the war has seen this number swell to at least 1.3 million, with estimates from several UN agencies suggesting figures closer to 1.5 million. Many of these refugees are sheltered in UN camps and makeshift accommodations under dire conditions.

The leaders also referenced a January ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), stemming from a case brought by South Africa, which underscores Israel's obligations to protect civilians and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid.

"The protection of civilians is paramount and a requirement under international humanitarian law," the joint statement read, asserting that Palestinian civilians must not bear the consequences of actions aimed at Hamas.

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In response to international concerns, Netanyahu took to social media, stating Israel's intention to "fight until complete victory," which includes operations in Rafah.

While Netanyahu mentioned efforts to allow civilian populations to vacate combat zones, Israeli government spokesperson Eylon Levy was hard-pressed in an interview with Channel 4, where he admitted that there is nowhere safe for the civilians to evacuate to.

Some observers suggest that Israel is making a final effort to accomplish its objectives within the one-month period ordered by ICJ, during which it must report on the measures it has implemented to prevent acts of genocide.