The Government Media Office in Gaza has issued a stark warning that Rafah Governorate is experiencing genocide and systematic ethnic cleansing, describing the situation as one of the most horrific atrocities of our time. The statement outlines a full-scale humanitarian catastrophe engulfing the region, with Israeli forces transforming Rafah into a “closed military zone,” effectively isolating it from the rest of Gaza.

According to the report, the military has carried out brutal attacks against civilians, leading to widespread destruction of infrastructure and residential areas, rendering the city nearly uninhabitable. Despite a ceasefire agreement that was meant to take effect on January 19, 2025, the violence has continued unabated, with the Palestinian Ministry of Health documenting numerous civilian casualties, many of whom were trying to return to their devastated homes.

Rafah, home to approximately 300,000 people, has seen over 90% of its housing stock destroyed, including more than 20,000 buildings. Mayor Dr. Ahmed Al-Soufi has declared the city a "disaster zone," citing the obliteration of hospitals, streets, and public facilities. Israeli forces have reportedly used explosive devices to demolish key medical facilities, including the main hospital and several maternity wards, forcing medical personnel to abandon their posts.

In a further blow to public health, Israeli forces have destroyed nearly all of Rafah’s water wells, depriving thousands of families of access to clean drinking water. The devastation extends to infrastructure as well, with over 320 kilometers of roads and 85% of the sewage network rendered inoperable, creating conditions ripe for disease outbreaks.

The destruction of places of worship has also been significant, with over 100 mosques partially or completely destroyed. Agricultural lands have been decimated, threatening food security for the population. The closure of the Kerem Shalom crossing for over a month has exacerbated the situation, preventing the entry of essential supplies, including fuel necessary to operate water pumps.

In light of these dire circumstances, the Government Media Office has urgently called on the international community and humanitarian organisations to intervene. They demand the immediate withdrawal of Israeli forces from Rafah, the establishment of safe humanitarian corridors, and independent investigations into alleged war crimes.

The statement emphasised that the destruction in Rafah is not merely a consequence of military actions, but a deliberate strategy aimed at depopulating the area and altering its demographic landscape. It concluded with a pledge that the resilience of Rafah's people will stand as a testament to their will to survive amid this relentless assault.