Rafah Under Attack: Call on Canada to Stop the Attack on Rafah and Protect Innocent Lives Now

On the morning of May 6, Palestinians seeking refuge in Eastern parts of Rafah received an order to evacuate for safety in advance of Israel’s assault. The warning stated that Israel “is about to operate with great force” in the area and directed people to evacuate to the so-called ‘humanitarian zone’ of Al Mawasi.

Heavy bombing in Rafah overnight has reportedly killed many civilians, including several children. Israel’s invasion of Rafah will have catastrophic humanitarian consequences for the more than 1.2 million people who are displaced and now sheltering in dire conditions in Rafah.

Once again, civilians in Rafah are being told to evacuate as Rafah remains under attack, but there is no safe place to go.

Israel’s warning for civilians to evacuate Rafah and flee to Al Mawasi is futile as Al Mawasi is not safe. Civilians sheltering there have reported they continue to face attacks and severe shortages of food, water, and other vital aid.

Forcing more people there will only worsen the catastrophic humanitarian crisis, leaving the most vulnerable at risk, the sick, the wounded, the elderly, newborn infants and people with disabilities who cannot evacuate without support.

International Humanitarian Law must be upheld. Civilian lives must be protected, and Israel must obey international humanitarian law. Ordering people to leave does not absolve Israel of its legal obligations.  

What happens now? The attack on Rafah must not be allowed to go ahead. The Canadian Government must condemn the brutal attack and call for an immediate ceasefire in order to save lives.

Add your voice! Urge Canada to protect innocent civilians and condemn the invasion of Rafah. Take action now, send an email to your political representative.