The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) reported that approximately 80,000 individuals have fled Rafah since Israeli tanks and troops entered eastern areas of the city on Monday.
UNRWA has called for an immediate ceasefire as the latest wave of "forced displacement in the Gaza Strip" unfolds, emphasizing the unbearable toll on tens of thousands of Palestinians who have been compelled to flee multiple times in search of safety. The agency stated, "Nowhere is safe."
Over the past several months of Israel's conflict with the territory, an estimated 1.5 million people have sought refuge in Rafah. The UN and humanitarian aid organizations are cautioning of a potential "catastrophe" should Israel proceed with a full ground invasion of the city.
