Israel has stated that its military action in Rafah is 'restricted'.
Upon the arrival of our convoy of Humvees in Rafah, thick clouds of dirt and sand filled the air,
marking the first time international reporters have been permitted to enter since the
Israeli military initiated its ground assault on the city two months ago.
After the dust has cleared, the extent of devastation is shocking.
However, it is sadly a scene that we have witnessed all too often.
This area of Rafah, located in the southern part of Gaza,
which served as the final sanctuary for over a million Palestinians during the conflict,
is now completely transformed.
Israel has consistently labeled its military intervention in Rafah as "restricted."
Nevertheless, the level of destruction in this particular neighborhood in
southern Rafah bears a striking resemblance to what I have observed in northern Gaza,
central Gaza, and Khan Younis during my limited visits to Gaza alongside the Israeli military.
Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the IDF’s chief spokesperson,
explains that certain residences have been leveled while other structures have been targeted by bombings
due to being booby-trapped and containing tunnels rigged with explosives.
Hagari explained that instances of destruction occur due to various reasons,
such as houses being booby trapped, houses collapsing when tunnels are demolished,
or Hamas firing from houses and endangering Israeli forces,
leaving no choice but to prioritize the safety of the forces.
He mentions that other areas of Rafah are not as severely affected. However,
CNN is unable to confirm his statements independently due to Israel's restrictions on foreign
journalists entering Gaza freely. Our only means of access is through embedding with the Israeli military,
and it is in this devastated part of Rafah where we have been taken.
The purpose of our visit here with the Israeli military is not to witness the destruction,
but rather to discuss the reasons behind their offensive in this location,
the discoveries they claim to have made, and the achievements they have attained.