Preparations for Operation Rafah in the far south of the Gaza Strip are underway in Israel, with reports indicating that the operation is expected to take place very soon. According to a senior Israeli security official speaking to Reuters, the Israeli army is fully prepared to launch the operation in Rafah as soon as they receive the political go-ahead.
The ground offensive plan for Operation Rafah has been presented to American officials and other agencies in the region. The operation will proceed in phases, with the city of Rafah divided into defined areas. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) will inform the population before advancing into each area so that civilians can evacuate their shelters and homes in time.
Two brigades of reservists have been mobilized by the armed forces to return to southern Gaza under the command of the 99th Division. Additionally, the 2nd Reserve Brigade of the 146th Division and the 679th Reserve Brigade of the 210th Division will be moved from northern Israel to the border with Lebanon to continue the defense and attack mission in the Strip.
The recent plan for Operation Rafah was approved by the IDF earlier this week, following three previous suggestions. Despite opposition from the US government due to concerns about civilian protection, Israel is preparing to establish a joint operation with the United States. The plan for entering Rafah is viewed as essential to the mission and could potentially help address other issues, such as the hostage situation.
In a related development, Axios reported that the head of the Shin Bet and the Israeli chief of staff visited Egypt yesterday morning to meet with Egyptian intelligence officials and discuss the upcoming offensive. Egypt, which borders Rafah, has warned against Israel entering the city due to the large number of displaced Palestinians living there as a result of ongoing bombings in other parts of the Strip.