Israeli forces rescued two hostages in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on the 12th. Health authorities in the Gaza Strip said at least 67 people were killed in the Israeli attack.

As the Israeli military prepares to carry out ground operations, fear is rising among those evacuated to Rafah, with some seeking refuge elsewhere. The Israeli government appears to be aiming to strongly emphasize that attacking Rafah and increasing military pressure on Hamas will lead to the release of the hostages, says Masu Naga.