Speaking at a press conference in Jerusalem, Ms Baerbock said: "1.3 million people are waiting there in a very small space. They really have nowhere else to go now... If the Israeli army launches an attack on Rafah under these conditions, it will be a humanitarian disaster."
Palestinians displaced by Israeli strikes take shelter in a tent camp amid ongoing clashes between Israel and Hamas, in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, February 14, 2024. Photo: REUTERS
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on February 14 that his country would continue to attack Hamas forces in Rafah, the last Palestinian refuge in southern Gaza, after allowing civilians to leave the area.
“We will fight until we achieve complete victory and this includes strong action in Rafah, after we allow civilians to leave the combat zone,” Netanyahu posted on social media.
On the same day, French President Emmanuel Macron firmly opposed a potential Israeli military attack in Rafah.
Israel is facing growing international pressure to agree to a ceasefire with Hamas. The Israeli military launched a raid on Rafah early on February 12, rescuing two hostages but reportedly killing around 100 people.
According to the Hamas-controlled Palestinian health agency, Israel's military offensive in Gaza has killed at least 28,500 Palestinians, mostly women and children. Many countries and international organizations have opposed Israel's plan to attack Rafah and warned of a humanitarian disaster if the attack goes ahead.
Mai Anh (according to Reuters)
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