The UN human rights chief has warned Israel against launching a full military operation in the southern Gazan city of Rafah, describing the prospect as “terrifying”. Volker Turk said such a move could halt the already “meagre” aid reaching the city, where 1.5 million people are sheltering.
UK Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron urged Israel to “stop and think seriously” before taking further action, noting there is “nowhere” for people to go in Rafah. His comments came after the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reported that Israeli strikes overnight killed 67 people in the city.
Israel said it carried out a “wave of strikes” while rescuing two hostages from a building in Rafah. Fernando Simon Marman, 60, and Louis Har, 70, were taken to hospital and are in “good medical condition”, according to the Israeli military.
The International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, expressed deep concern over the reported bombardment and potential ground incursion. He said his office is “actively investigating any crimes allegedly committed” and that those in breach of the law will be held accountable.
Meanwhile, the UK has imposed sanctions on four Israeli settlers accused of violently attacking Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. Lord Cameron said their behaviour was illegal, unacceptable and an egregious abuse of human rights, accusing Israel of not following through on commitments to tackle extremist behaviour.
