Gaza Attacks: Dozens Killed as Rafah Crossing Reopens - February 2, 2026

Gaza experienced a significant escalation of violence, with at least 32 Palestinians reported killed, including children, following aerial attacks. These attacks occurred against a backdrop of a partial reopening of the Rafah crossing with Egypt, intended to facilitate civilian movement and medical access. However, the day became one of the bloodiest in recent months, with approximately 530 Palestinians killed during a period described as a “fake truce.”

Attacks and Casualties

The attacks began at dawn, targeting homes in Gaza City and a camp for displaced Palestinians in Khan Younis. Samer al-Atbash mourned the loss of his three nieces, stating, “We found my three nipotines for street. What have those children done? What have we done?” A house belonging to the Rizq family in Gaza City was also destroyed, having been previously targeted. In Khan Younis, seven members of the Hadaideh family, including an elderly man, a woman, and five children, were killed.

The most severe incident occurred in the Sheikh Radwan neighborhood of Gaza City, where an Israeli airstrike hit a police station, resulting in at least 16 deaths, including four female police officers. Additional casualties were reported in other areas, including Abbas intersection and Old Gaza. Snipers in Jabaliya killed one person. Approximately half of the victims were reported to be women and children.

Did You Know? Approximately 530 Palestinians have been killed in the three months prior to this recent escalation, described as a period of “fake truce.”

Political Context and Future Outlook

The attacks are seen as a message to both Palestinians and the U.S. Administration. Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu has indicated he is not interested in proposed peace initiatives, including the Board of Peace from Donald Trump, or international stabilization forces. His stated goal is the complete disarmament of Hamas.

Netanyahu is reportedly prepared to launch a new offensive against Gaza, particularly now that the last hostage held in Gaza has been returned to Israel. This shift comes after over two years of public pressure to secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. With elections approaching in the latter half of the year, Netanyahu aims to reinforce his image as a security-focused leader.

According to Amos Harel, a military commentator for Haaretz, the Israeli government will accept the handover of heavy weapons by Hamas but will demand the surrender of light arms as well, even those intended for a future Palestinian police force. Netanyahu is reportedly anticipating the failure of the American plan, and Yediot Ahronot suggests he hopes Hamas will refrain from surrendering weapons, which would provide justification for increased force against Gaza.

Expert Insight: The reported unwillingness to accept a security force comprised of individuals linked to Hamas suggests a fundamental disagreement over the future governance and security arrangements in Gaza, potentially leading to prolonged instability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the status of the Rafah crossing?

The Rafah crossing with Egypt was partially reopened, with plans for full operation the following day, to allow for civilian movement and access to medical care.

What is Netanyahu’s stated goal regarding Hamas?

Netanyahu wants the complete disarmament of Hamas.

What was the reported response from the Israeli military regarding civilian casualties?

The Israeli military stated it targeted Hamas commanders and weapons depots, without referencing civilian casualties.

As the political landscape shifts and elections loom, what impact might these events have on the long-term stability of the region?

Gaza Attacks: Dozens Killed as Rafah Crossing Reopens – February 2, 2026