Germany: Israeli attack on Rafah is a disaster

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock warned on Saturday of a possible Israeli army attack on Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, noting that it could constitute an "expected humanitarian catastrophe."

The minister said on “X” platform: “The plight in Rafah truly exceeds the ability to comprehend. 1.3 million people are looking for protection from the fighting in a very limited area. An Israeli army attack on Rafah will constitute an expected humanitarian catastrophe.”

Birbock stressed that "Israel must defend itself against Hamas terrorism, but while alleviating the suffering of the civilian population as much as possible."

Baerbock reiterated Germany's calls for a ceasefire so that the Israeli hostages could also be "eventually released."

She announced that she will go to Israel next week to discuss the situation.

In Washington, American officials said that they had not seen any preparations indicating a “major attack” or “imminent,” and they warned of a “disaster,” expressing their concern about a scenario similar to what happened in the north.

Hamas warned on Saturday that the attack on Rafah could leave "tens of thousands of martyrs and wounded."