Israeli Forces Kill 12 Palestinians in Gaza; Rafah Attacks Reported
On January 31, 2026, violent clashes in Gaza resulted in the deaths of at least 12 Palestinians, including children. This incident occurred just one day before the scheduled reopening of the Rafah border crossing.
Latest Attacks in Gaza Strip
Since dawn, Israeli air strikes targeted various locations throughout the Gaza Strip. In the al-Mawasi area, an Israeli air strike hit a tent sheltering displaced individuals, resulting in at least seven fatalities, three of whom were children. Medical sources reported that the victims’ bodies were transported to the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis.
In Gaza City, emergency services indicated that five Palestinians, including three children, were killed due to another air strike on an apartment building in the Remal neighborhood. Additionally, eight individuals suffered injuries from a bombing in the Daraj neighborhood.
Casualties and Context
According to Gaza’s Government Media Office, Israeli military actions have led to a total of 524 Palestinian deaths since a ceasefire took effect on October 10, 2023. The recent escalation in violence has raised significant concerns among the local population.
Reopening of the Rafah Crossing
The Rafah crossing, which connects Gaza with Egypt, is set to reopen on February 1, 2026. This decision is part of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, although its implementation has faced delays. Israel insisted on reopening the crossing only after locating its last remaining captive.
The Israeli government stated that only a limited number of individuals would be allowed to pass through the crossing, contingent upon receiving prior security clearance. No humanitarian aid or supplies will be permitted to enter Gaza. Restrictions will apply to those wishing to re-enter Gaza, excluding individuals born outside the territory.
Response from Hamas
Hamas has criticized the conditions surrounding the Rafah crossing’s reopening. The group has called for unrestricted movement of people in and out of Gaza, emphasizing the need for Israel to adhere to all terms of the ceasefire agreement.
As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza intensifies, the situation remains dire for the local population, with significant casualties and ongoing conflict characterizing their daily lives.
