Israeli military confirms seizure of Gaza side of Rafah Crossing

Israel’s 401st Armored Brigade took control of the Gazan side of Rafah Crossing during a military operation on Tuesday morning in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Israel’s latest military initiative comes as the details of a potential ceasefire were being negotiated on Monday.

The Israel Defense Forces reported that 20 people were killed during the battle. Troops also reportedly discovered several critical tunnel shafts during the operation. The Israeli military confirmed the overnight military operation, according to the Times of Israel.

After Israel breached the Gazan side of Rafah, an automobile filled with explosives was headed on a collision course with an IDF tank before Israel’s military destroyed the vehicle, according to the Times of Israel.

No injuries or casualties from the operation have been reported at the time of publication.

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Israel’s tanks entered Rafah a day after the country issued evacuation orders for approximately 100,000 Gazans. The city’s residents were advised to take refuge in a “safe zone” at a location north of Rafah, near Khan Younis, according to reports.

Earlier Monday, Hamas reportedly agreed to a ceasefire proposal by Egyptian and Qatari officials. However, Israel rejected the agreement, claiming it fell short of Israel’s requests, the Times of Israel reported.

According to reports, Israel announced it would send a delegation to Egypt on Tuesday to resume discussions, resolve differences, and work toward a mutual agreement.