Attack at shelter ‘terrifying mistake,’ but campaign will continue: Netanyahu
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has acknowledged the recent incident of an attack on a shelter in the Gaza city of Rafah, despite the ruling of the International Criminal Court (ICC) designating it as a safe zone. The assault on the shelter has led to widespread condemnation globally and criticism of the Israeli government.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has characterized the incident of the attack on the shelter as a 'terrifying mistake.' However, he remains adamant about continuing the campaign despite the ongoing controversy in Israel.
According to a report by the American news outlet New York Times on Monday (May 27), the attack was carried out on a shelter in the designated 'safe area' of Rafah on Sunday (May 26) by Israeli forces. At least 45 innocent Palestinians lost their lives in the attack, with hundreds more wounded. The assault has sparked international outrage.
In his statement to the Israeli Parliament, Prime Minister Netanyahu stated, "From Rafah, we have already evacuated 1 million civilians. Although we had no intention to harm any civilians, unfortunately, a grave mistake has occurred. We are investigating this incident and will find out why it happened because that is our policy."
Netanyahu emphasized the importance for Israel to remain vigilant on 'every possible issue for the safety of non-combatant civilians in the Gaza conflict.' He also stressed that efforts are being made to ensure those not involved in the conflict are not harmed.
However, Netanyahu declared, "I have no desire to end this war before achieving all our objectives."
Following the Sunday's airstrike, condemnation has been expressed by various international organizations. The European Union has urged Israel to heed the recent directive of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and called for the termination of the attacks at Rafah. The EU's chief diplomat, Josep Borrell, referred to the Sunday airstrike at Rafah as 'terrifying.'
