Joyeeta Bej 
“Heartache and Tears: Rafah’s Unbearable Suffering”
India has expressed profound sorrow and concern over the recent attacks on Rafah, a city in the southern Gaza Strip. The situation in Rafah has escalated dramatically following a series of Israeli airstrikes aimed at Hamas militants, but which have resulted in substantial civilian casualties.
The latest reports indicate that at least 45 people were killed and over 250 were injured in an airstrike on May 26, 2024, which hit a tent camp designated as a safe zone for displaced persons. Many of the victims were women, children, and the elderly.
The attack has intensified the humanitarian crisis in Rafah, with over 900,000 people forcibly displaced and struggling for basic necessities. The situation is exacerbated by the closure of medical facilities and the shortage of humanitarian aid. Doctors Without Borders has highlighted the dire conditions, noting severe injuries among the victims and the lack of functional trauma hospitals.
In response to these events, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued a strong statement condemning the violence and urging both Israel and Hamas to de-escalate the conflict immediately. Indian officials have reiterated their support for a two-state solution and called for the resumption of peace negotiations. India’s stance aligns with its long-held position advocating for peaceful resolution and protection of civilian lives.
The international outcry has been significant, with nations and humanitarian organizations calling for adherence to international humanitarian laws and the immediate cessation of hostilities. The United Nations and the International Court of Justice have both called for an end to the military offensive and for the opening of humanitarian corridors to provide much-needed aid to the affected populations.
India, along with other global leaders, has voiced its condemnation of the attacks. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior officials have expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people and urged international cooperation to address the humanitarian crisis. India’s diplomatic channels are actively engaged in supporting efforts to broker peace and provide humanitarian assistance to those affected.
The humanitarian situation in Rafah remains dire. Families are living in crowded tents with limited access to food, water, and medical care. International organizations are struggling to deliver aid due to ongoing hostilities and restrictions on movement. Personal stories from the ground paint a grim picture of daily life under constant threat of violence, with many residents unsure of where to seek safety.
As the conflict continues, the global community is calling for a renewed commitment to peace and the protection of civilians. India’s proactive stance and call for dialogue highlight the need for concerted international efforts to bring an end to the violence and address the humanitarian needs in Gaza.
