Why is Israel really bombing Rafah? Here's what to know

IDF forces attacked last night (Wednesday) using artillery fire and airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip, with an emphasis on the city of Rafah, targeting Hamas operatives and terror infrastructure, as well as other terror organizations. At the same time, the Southern Command deployed large infantry and armored forces to the Rafah and Khan Younis areas, aiming to exert pressure on Hamas. According to reports from the Strip, at least ten people were killed in the strikes, and IDF forces managed to secure controlling positions in the area.

Why Rafah?

Throughout the war, IDF forces operated in the heart of the city, dismantling underground systems, including those connecting to the Egyptian side beneath the Philadelphi Corridor. In fact, Palestinian Rafah has been left almost without leadership and stripped of terror infrastructure built over decades.

Despite the achievements in Rafah, the IDF decided to return to operate in the city for two main reasons: First, the Rafah crossing. The fact that the IDF is reinforcing forces and reasserting control over the area at this stage keeps Hamas further from regaining control of the Rafah crossing or at least reopening it. This is to prevent Hamas from transferring food stockpiled over recent months and still stored in warehouses, goods, about 50 percent of the remaining fuel, and gas, which has almost completely run out. Hamas leadership understands that to reopen the crossing or receive humanitarian aid through the Kerem Shalom crossing, they will need to return to negotiations. Second, the Rafah area has been a conduit for smuggling of all kinds, including weapons, ammunition, and even terrorists who went abroad for training and returned, seemingly under Egypt’s nose.

Will Sinwar fight Israel to the last card like his brother, or will he compromise under military pressure?

Assessments in the security establishment suggest that Sinwar will begin to reveal his cards and clarify his position. At this stage, Sinwar enjoys support in the Arab world and even on campuses at highly regarded universities in the US and Europe. A security official said, "Support in public opinion in Europe and the US is more important to Hamas leadership than a Houthi missile."

Walla contributed to this article.