IDF General Tells Troops to Continue Rafah Operation Until Hamas Is Defeated

Directive issued after eight Israeli soldiers were killed in a vehicle explosion during an operation in Rafah.

Israeli soldiers near the border with the Gaza Strip in southern Israel on May 2, 2024. Amir Levy/Getty Images

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) vowed to continue military operations in Rafah until the Hamas terrorist group is defeated. This followed an explosion in southern Gaza that killed eight Israeli soldiers.

IDF Southern Command chief Maj. Gen. Yaron Finkelman said at a June 15 meeting with commanders in Rafah that they must continue their fight against Hamas as the explosion is being investigated.