IDF Kills 50 Hamas Gunmen as Rafah Offensive Expands
Israeli forces reported killing approximately 50 Hamas gunmen and discovering ten tunnel shafts, including a booby-trapped entrance that injured three soldiers, during ongoing operations in Rafah. The Israeli war cabinet voted to expand the offensive despite international pressure. The IDF also secured further control over the Philadelphi Corridor. The operation has severely restricted humanitarian aid flow through the Rafah crossing, which remains under full Israeli operational control following its seizure in 2024.
Date: May 9, 2026
Location: Palestine
Conflict: Israel-Hamas War
Category: ground battle
Severity: HIGH
Casualties reported: 50
Displaced: 800
Source: Wikipedia