This Video Does Not Depict Israeli Tanks Moving Toward Rafah
The Claim
An armored brigade of the Zionist army is moving towards Rafah.
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Emerging story
Recently, social media users have been circulating a video claiming to depict Israeli tanks moving toward Rafah, purportedly signaling the beginning of a ground invasion of the city.
Misbar’s Analysis
Misbar investigated the circulating video and found it to be misleading. The video was published on Instagram on January 15, 2024, depicting the Israeli forces initiating the withdrawal of their 36th Division from Gaza for rest and training. This move leaves three other divisions to combat Hamas and is part of the Israeli forces' strategy for a prolonged war with Hamas and potential escalation with Hezbollah in northern Israel, ensuring troop readiness.
Israeli Forces Withdraw 36th Division From Gaza in January 2024
Misbar's team found that the video, depicting the withdrawal of the 36th Division from Gaza, was also published by the Hindustan Times on January 16. The Israeli military implemented changes within its ranks amid the ongoing war in Gaza. The 36th division, which includes the Golani Brigades, was withdrawn from the Gaza Strip. Israel cited the need for rest among the soldiers in the division. However, this decision came amidst a series of attacks by Hamas on Israeli troops in Gaza.
Israel Threatens Ground Invasion of Rafah
The Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly affirmed Israel's commitment to advancing the planned assault on Rafah, the final major area in Gaza yet to be entered by Israeli ground troops.
Rafah lies hard by the Egyptian border and hosts the main crossing through which aid enters the whole territory.
Jean-Raphael Poitou, Middle East Director for Action Against Hunger, remarked, "We don't exactly know what shape this operation will take, but what is certain is that there will be a decrease of available aid, and that many people are moving around."
The Wall Street Journal reported on Monday, citing Israeli and Egyptian officials, that Israeli plans aim to evacuate civilians in the first two or three weeks of the operation, in coordination with the United States, Egypt, and other Arab countries.
According to the newspaper, Egyptian officials, who were briefed on the Israeli plan to raid Rafah, indicated that the initial stage of the operation would prioritize the evacuation of civilians. The evacuation plan involves transferring civilians to nearby areas such as Khan Younis, as well as establishing shelters equipped with tents, food, and medical facilities.
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