Israeli military officials have stated that their bombardment of Gaza might “intensify” in the hours leading up to a four-day cease-fire set to begin early Friday. Reports suggest that Hamas morale has plummeted, resulting in many terrorists retreating south. Lt. Col Richard Hecht, a spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), stated that artillery airstrikes “may even intensify” in the coming hours, according to NBC News.
As per the BBC, Israeli shells have been reported falling north of Gaza and in the southern city of Khan Younis Thursday, while heavy fighting continues in northern sections of the city. The Jerusalem Post reported that some Hamas terrorists have abandoned their arms and fled south as the IDF gains ground and successfully eliminates senior officials.
The cease-fire, mediated by Qatar, is scheduled to begin Friday local time. Up to 50 hostages are expected to be handed over beginning at 4 p.m. in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners and humanitarian aid and fuel.
In an alarming report from Qatari officials, stray dogs have been seen feeding on dead bodies in the streets of Gaza City. Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson Majed Al-Ansari described the situation as “unparalleled” in terms of humanitarian crisis.
The head of UK-based charity Medical Aid for Palestinians testified to the UK Parliament’s international development committee, reporting that dozens of bodies are decomposing in the hospital forecourt, being eaten by wild dogs as the morgue has shut down.
The IDF continues to press the attack before the cease-fire, securing swathes of Gaza and rooting out terrorists and tunnels. Israel has accused Hamas of using the Al-Shifra hospital to store weapons, take hostages, and seek refuge after an attack on October 7. There’s been extensive footage and images released to support these allegations, and the hospital director has been taken into custody.
For more information, view the full article at https://nypost.com/2023/11/23/news/israel-may-intensify-bombardment-before-ceasefire-as-hamas-morale-plummets/?utm_source=url_sitebuttons&utm_medium=site%20buttons&utm_campaign=site%20buttons
