Israel has seized full control of Rafah in Gaza, including the Morag corridor between Khan Yunis and Rafah, effectively cutting Gaza off from other regions. The Israeli military confirmed this on Saturday (April 12).
According to reports, since violating the ceasefire agreement on March 18, Israel resumed intense attacks on Gaza. During that period, they began advancing into Rafah, near the Egyptian border, and ordered residents to evacuate the area. Following relentless assaults and acts of brutality, Israel has now completely occupied Rafah.
Previously, Israeli forces had already captured the Philadelphi Corridor along the Gaza border. Later, they constructed the Morag corridor near Khan Yunis. By gaining control over this corridor, Rafah has been isolated from Khan Yunis and brought entirely under Israeli authority.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz declared on Saturday that Rafah would now be considered an Israeli “security zone,” and no Palestinians would be allowed to remain there.
He stated that this is the final opportunity for the people of Gaza to remain in Gaza—only if they eliminate Hamas and ensure the release of all Israeli hostages. Addressing the residents of Gaza, he said, “This is the final moment to eliminate Hamas, free the hostages, and end the war. If this opportunity is not taken, the Israeli Defense Forces will begin intense assaults across most of Gaza, and you will have to evacuate the warzone.”
He added, “Hamas cannot protect the residents of Gaza. Its leaders are hiding underground with their families in safe locations, while those abroad are staying in luxury hotels with billions of dollars in their bank accounts. Now is the time for the people of Gaza to stand against Hamas and free the hostages. That is the only way to stop the war.”
He also mentioned that, according to “Trump’s plan,” Palestinians who willingly choose to migrate to other countries will be given the opportunity to do so.