Israeli Tanks Advance into Residential Areas East of Rafah

After reinforcing its forces at the outskirts of Rafah city, following its control over the Palestinian side of the city's border crossing with Egypt, and prompting thousands of residents to evacuate neighborhoods in the east of the city, Israel has begun to advance toward the city center. Witnesses reported that Israeli tanks have been advancing since morning and have entered the neighborhoods of Al-Janina, Al-Salam, and Brazil. One resident stated, "The tanks advanced today, Tuesday, west of Salah al-Din road into the neighborhoods of Brazil and Al-Janina. They are now in the populated area and clashes are occurring." Journalistic correspondents noted that Israeli tanks began moving from the Rafah crossing area to the city center, coinciding with incursions and demolition operations in the Al-Zeitoun neighborhood and ongoing attacks on displaced persons. Israeli drones have also opened fire on displaced individuals in the shelters in Jabalia.