Israeli Forces Secure Strategic Route in Southern Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict and Ceasefire Talks
GAZA CITY — Israeli military forces have completed the encirclement of Gaza’s southern city of Rafah, according to an official statement issued on Saturday. This marks a significant phase in the ongoing military operations in the region, as Israel continues efforts to secure strategic areas within Gaza.
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) reported the establishment of control over the “Morag Axis,” a key route separating Rafah from Khan Yunis in southern Gaza. The military stated that this corridor now forms part of what it calls a broader “security zone” along the border with Egypt.
The development comes amid large-scale evacuations of civilians from both Rafah and Khan Yunis, with the military urging residents to relocate as operations expand across the territory.
Ongoing Military Operations
Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that operations will intensify in other parts of Gaza as well, including Beit Hanoun and areas around the Netzarim Corridor. The military has issued additional evacuation notices, raising concerns among international organizations.
The United Nations recently warned that the continuing displacement of residents into smaller, more crowded areas poses serious humanitarian concerns, including what the UN described as a risk to the “future viability of Palestinians as a group in Gaza.”
Ceasefire Negotiations in Cairo
While ground operations continue, diplomatic efforts are also underway. A Hamas delegation was scheduled to meet with Egyptian mediators in Cairo on Saturday to discuss a potential ceasefire agreement.
A Hamas official expressed hope that the discussions would lead to meaningful progress towards ending hostilities and securing the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. The official noted that no new proposals had been formally received, though communication with mediators remains ongoing.
According to media reports, Egypt has proposed a deal involving the release of several Israeli hostages in exchange for a temporary truce lasting between 40 and 70 days and the release of Palestinian detainees.
Humanitarian Situation
Since the resumption of Israeli military activity following the breakdown of a ceasefire in March, more than 1,500 people have lost their lives, according to Gaza’s health ministry. The conflict has displaced hundreds of thousands and led to significant infrastructure damage across the region.
Footage released on Saturday showed residents in mourning, with funeral prayers being held for victims of recent airstrikes. The UN human rights office reported that recent strikes have resulted in high civilian casualties, including women and children.
As of April 2025, the ongoing conflict has resulted in over 50,000 fatalities in Gaza since the intensification of hostilities in October 2023.
Looking Ahead
Top Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, maintain that continued military pressure is necessary to secure the release of remaining hostages held in Gaza. International mediators, including Egyptian and American officials, continue to push for a peaceful resolution.
While progress on the diplomatic front remains uncertain, both regional and global stakeholders are urging restraint and humanitarian access as the situation in Gaza evolves.
