Explained: All eyes on Rafah - what does it mean?

'All Eyes on Rafah' gains traction on social media after deadly Israeli airstrike in Gaza kills dozens, sparking global outrage.

The phrase 'All Eyes on Rafah' has become a powerful rallying cry on social media, urging people to pay attention to the ongoing conflict in Gaza between Israel and Palestinians. The recent deadly Israeli airstrike in Rafah, which killed dozens of civilians in a designated safe zone, has reignited global outrage and sparked renewed interest in the situation.

The horrifying scenes of a blazing hellscape near tents for displaced Palestinians, with victims mostly being women, children, and the elderly, have shocked the world. This deadly incident, the deadliest in Rafah since the beginning of Israel's offensive in May, has prompted a wave of support and solidarity on social media.

The image with the caption 'All Eyes on Rafah' has gone viral, being reposted over 40 million times on Instagram alone. Celebrities, influencers, and athletes have joined the movement, using their platforms to draw attention to the conflict and call for action.

The phrase originated from a comment by Rick Peeperkorn, the director of the World Health Organisation's Office of the Occupied Palestinian Territories, who stated 'All eyes are on Rafah' before Israel's ground invasion of Gaza. Since then, the saying has become a powerful message to urge people not to look away but to focus on the atrocities happening in the region.

In addition to the viral image, the slogan has been attached to fundraisers, educational resources, and protest signs, amplifying its reach and impact. The use of social media as a tool for activism and awareness has been instrumental in bringing attention to the conflict and putting pressure on Israel to cease its offensive in Gaza.

As international pressure mounts and calls for peace grow louder, the situation in Rafah remains dire. The Israeli army's claims regarding the cause of the deadly fire have been met with skepticism, and the need for a resolution to the conflict becomes increasingly urgent.

The phrase 'All Eyes on Rafah' serves as a reminder to the world to not turn a blind eye to the suffering of the Palestinian people and to continue advocating for peace and justice in the region. The power of social media in spreading awareness and mobilizing support for those in need is evident in the widespread impact of this simple yet powerful message.