Israel has reportedly commenced offensive operations in Gaza after the expiration of the truce with Hamas. The Israel Defense Forces stated that some of the areas being targeted include southern parts of the strip.
According to the IDF, “ground, air and naval forces struck terror targets in the north and south of the Gaza Strip, including in Khan Yunis and Rafah.” Over 200 targets have been struck since the designated time. The IDF indicated that the targets included “areas booby-trapped with explosives, terror tunnel shafts, launch posts, and operational command centres designated by Hamas for use in the renewed fighting.”
In a video statement, Benny Gantz, a member of the Israel war cabinet, and former Defense Minister, mentioned that Israel had “prepared for widening the framework” to bring the remaining hostages home. He emphasized that Israel is committed to returning the hostages and eliminating the threat from Hamas.
“During last week, we prepared for widening the framework due to our determination to return the hostages and knowledge that we have to change the reality in the south and also in the north. As we promised, we came back and are carrying this out,” said Gantz, who joined Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in an emergency unity government following the October 7 attacks.
Gantz reiterated that “this victory also foremost includes the effort to return the hostages, as well as eliminating the threat from Hamas.”
The IDF dropped leaflets in the southern city of Khan Younis, designating it as a “fighting zone” and instructed residents to evacuate. The military unveiled an interactive map displaying Gaza divided into numbered districts, which is to be used in the “next stage of the war” to minimize casualties during strikes in civilian areas, where it says Hamas has placed military infrastructure. However, extensive damage to telecommunications and power infrastructure in Gaza has left many residents without access to the internet.
