In a statement issued on Monday, Francis stated: "I am deeply distressed by the escalating military operation into Rafah, where over a million civilians are already sheltering in the most dire conditions."

He further added: "Another phase of this humanitarian catastrophe is at our doorstep. This is not a path to sustainable peace."

Francis emphasized his commitment to appealing to all parties with influence to take decisive action to halt the violence and initiate constructive dialogue for a lasting peace.

The Israeli military is reportedly planning a ground offensive in Rafah, home to more than one million people seeking refuge from the conflict, in an effort to dismantle what it describes as the remaining "Hamas battalions." Concerns have been raised about the potential for a humanitarian disaster resulting from the planned offensive.

Since a cross-border incursion by the Palestinian group Hamas on October 7, israel has been carrying out extensive airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of at least 28,340 people and injuries to 67,984 others. Additionally, approximately 1,200 Israelis are believed to have been killed in the Hamas attack.

The Israeli campaign has led to 85% of Gaza’s population being internally displaced, amidst severe shortages of essential supplies such as food, clean water, and medicine. Furthermore, UN reports indicate that 60% of the enclave’s infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed. (ILKHA)