International Outcry Over Israeli Evacuation Orders Before Threatened Attack on Rafah in Gaza

Several countries have spoken out against Israel‘s orders to evacuate civilians in Rafah, Gaza, before a threatened attack, stating it would constitute a war crime under international law, including France, Jordan, and the US.

French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated his opposition to the potential offensive during a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The French foreign ministry warned of a looming humanitarian catastrophe if the attack on Rafah proceeds.

Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi condemned the threatened assault, labelling it as a potential massacre in the making. Safadi’s comments came ahead of a lunch meeting between King Abdullah of Jordan and US President Joe Biden.

Efforts to mediate a ceasefire in Cairo have hit a roadblock due to divergent views on the ceasefire’s permanency, with Israel concerned about Hamas retaining power in Gaza. The Qatari foreign ministry condemned Israel’s threats against Rafah, warning of dire humanitarian consequences.

European diplomats have expressed skepticism over Israel’s evacuation orders, suspecting they may be a tactic to pressure Hamas into ceasefire terms. The US and its allies have emphasized the necessity of protecting civilians in any military action.

Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister Petra De Sutter warned of an impending massacre due to the evacuation orders in Rafah, confirming plans for further sanctions against Israel. Germany urged all involved parties to ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza and the release of hostages.

Australia‘s Foreign Minister Penny Wong conveyed Australia’s grave concerns over the potential ground offensive in Rafah, echoing calls from the G7 for Israel to reconsider its actions. Hamas has cautioned that any Israeli operation in Rafah could jeopardize ceasefire negotiations.

Evacuations from Rafah are reportedly focused on specific districts, with evacuees directed to tent cities in nearby Khan Younis and Al Muwassi. Egypt has heightened military preparedness along its border with Gaza in response to Israel’s announcement, warning of severe humanitarian risks associated with the operation.