Israel’s 401st Brigade took control of the Gazan side of Rafah Crossing during a military operation on Tuesday morning amid the war with Hamas.
Israel’s tanks entered Rafah a day after the country issued evacuation orders for approximately 100,000 Gazans. The city’s residents were advised to take refuge in a “safe zone” at a location north of Rafah, near Khan Younis, according to reports.
The Israel Defense Forces reported that 20 people were killed during the battle. Troops also discovered several tunnel shafts during the maneuver that the military deemed “important,” according to reports.
Later, after Israel breached the Gazan side of Rafah, an automobile filled with explosives was headed on a collision course with an IDF tank before Israel’s military destroyed the vehicle, according to the Times of Israel.
The battle was confirmed by the Israeli military and comes hours after reported negotiations of a ceasefire, according to the Times of Israel.
No injuries or casualties from the operation have been reported at the time of publication.
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Earlier Monday, Hamas reportedly agreed to a ceasefire proposal by Egyptian and Qatari officials. However, Israel rejected the agreement, claiming it fell short of its requests.
Israel announced it would send a delegation to Egypt on Tuesday to resume discussions, resolve differences, and work toward a mutual agreement.
