Israeli armed forces have launched operations in the city of Rafah, a decision that Brazil has decried as potentially compromising ongoing ceasefire efforts in the region.
In a strongly worded statement, the Brazilian foreign ministry condemned Israel’s actions, accusing the country of “deliberately intensifying the conflict in an area known to have a high concentration of the civilian population.” This move, the statement said, disregards calls from the international community, including Israel’s closest allies, to exercise restraint and prioritize diplomatic solutions.
The Israeli military’s decision to take control of the vital Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt has further escalated the tensions in the region. As the military pushes into the southern Gaza town, the prospects for a much-needed ceasefire deal hang in the balance, leaving the international community deeply concerned about the potential for a humanitarian crisis.
Brazil’s condemnation of Israel’s actions underscores the growing global outcry against the escalation of violence in the region. The Brazilian government has made it clear that it believes Israel’s offensive in Rafah could jeopardize the fragile ceasefire negotiations, which have been the focus of intense diplomatic efforts in recent weeks.