The IDF has confirmed that its forces gained control of the Gazan side of Rafah Crossing on Tuesday morning, and the crossing is now under full IDF control. "Following intelligence that indicated that the Rafah Crossing in eastern Rafah was being used for terrorist purposes, IDF troops managed to establish operational control of the Gazan side of the crossing," the IDF reported. The DIF added: "On Sunday, mortars were fired from the area of the Rafah Crossing toward the area of the Kerem Shalom Crossing, as a result of which four IDF soldiers were killed and a number of other soldiers injured." During the operations, the IDF's Division 162, Brigade 401, and Givati Brigade took control of the crossing with the aid of other forces. Thus far, 20 terrorists have been eliminated in the operation, and three operational tunnel shafts have been located. No injuries were reported. During the fighting, terrorists attacked the IDF forces with an explosive device, car bomb, and gunfire. Furthermore, as part of the operational activity, IDF ground troops and IAF fighter jets struck and eliminated Hamas terror targets in the Rafah area, including military structures, underground infrastructure, and additional terrorist infrastructure from which Hamas operated in the Rafah area. The IDF is continuing its operations in the area and is searching for additional terrorists and tunnels. The IDF also stressed that it is providing ongoing updates to Egypt regarding its operations in Rafah. "IDF ground troops are continuing to operate against Hamas terrorist operatives and infrastructure in the area of the Rafah Crossing in eastern Rafah," the IDF added.
