Why did Israeli tanks advance deeper into western Rafah overnight?

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Israeli Tanks Advanced Deeper into Western Rafah to Dismantle Hamas Battalions

Israeli tanks, supported by warplanes and drones, advanced further into western Rafah on June 19 due to the stated military objective of completely dismantling Hamas battalions in the Shaboura and Tel Al-Sultan areas. This operation followed an overnight incursion into five neighborhoods, during which Israeli forces also reportedly blew up homes and caused heavy shelling and gunfire in the Al-Mawasi area. The military estimates that achieving this goal of dismantling Hamas fighters in these specific locations will take approximately one month at the current intensity of operations.
Military Objective to Dismantle Hamas in Key Areas

The Israeli military has identified the Shaboura and Tel Al-Sultan neighborhoods in Rafah as critical to its objective of eradicating Hamas. Colonel Liron Batito indicated that Hamas battalions in these areas are not yet sufficiently weakened and require complete dismantling. This strategic focus underscores the ongoing military effort to degrade Hamas's operational capabilities within the Gaza Strip.
Overnight Incursion and Civilian Impact

During the night of June 19, Israeli tanks reportedly moved into five neighborhoods in western Rafah. Residents described heavy shelling and gunfire impacting tents housing displaced families in the Al-Mawasi area, leading to casualties. Additionally, Israeli forces were reported to have destroyed several homes in western Rafah, where a significant portion of Gaza's displaced population had been sheltering.
Ongoing Control and Destruction of Rafah Crossing

Israeli forces maintained control of the border area between Rafah and Egypt, with footage showing the Rafah crossing significantly damaged and Israeli tanks positioned nearby. Despite the destruction, the Israeli military stated that the flow of aid into Gaza had not been obstructed by the damage to the crossing. This indicates a continued focus on military operations even in areas critical for humanitarian access.
Broader Campaign and Hamas Response

The advance into Rafah is part of a larger Israeli ground and air campaign that began following the October 7 attacks by Hamas-led militants. While the offensive has resulted in a high number of casualties and widespread destruction, Israel has not yet achieved its stated goals of eradicating Hamas and freeing all hostages. In response to Israeli actions, Palestinian gunmen have fired rockets towards the Kerem Shalom crossing, and engagements with Hamas-led fighters have been reported in other areas, such as the Zeitoun neighborhood in Gaza City.

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Why did Israeli tanks advance deeper into western Rafah overnight?

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