European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell joined the UN Secretary-General on Tuesday in warning about the attack on Rafah, fearing further civilian casualties. Borrell stated that the Israeli assault on Rafah is likely to result in more civilian deaths, adding that Israel is proceeding with the attack despite explicit warnings against it from EU member states and the United States.
In comments to reporters, Borrell noted, "The attack on Rafah has begun again despite all the requests from the international community, the United States, and EU member states, with everyone asking (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu not to attack." He continued, "I fear that this will once again lead to many casualties among civilians. No matter what they say," adding, "There are no safe areas in Gaza."
On Monday, Hamas announced its acceptance of a proposal for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip put forward by mediators, but Israel stated that the terms do not meet its demands and proceeded with the attacks on Rafah while planning to continue negotiations aimed at reaching an agreement.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in a press statement while receiving Italian President Sergio Mattarella, said, "A ground invasion of Rafah would be unbearable due to its devastating humanitarian consequences and its destabilizing impact on the region." He added, "Today I made a very strong appeal to the Israeli government and Hamas leadership to make an additional effort to reach an agreement, which is critically important. This is an opportunity that must not be missed."
