As you survey the scene in northern Gaza, the devastation is overwhelming. Blackened windows, shattered bedrooms, and pockmarked walls are just a few of the signs of the destruction and desolation left in the wake of Israel’s military campaign to remove Hamas from the enclave.
During a rare firsthand view of the Israeli advance into Gaza City, a small group of foreign reporters witnessed the aftermath of the military operation. What they saw was a landscape scarred by battle, with every building bearing the marks of war – blown-out walls, bullet holes, and shredded palm trees.
“It’s been a long two weeks of fighting. It is not an operation, it is a war,” said Lieutenant Colonel Ido, deputy commander of the 401st brigade, emphasizing the intensity and duration of the conflict. “It is going to last a long time, until Hamas no longer exists.”
Invasion of Gaza
Israel’s incursion into Gaza followed heavy bombardment in response to a surprise Hamas attack, resulting in the death of 1,400 people. Over the past 12 days, Israeli forces have encircled Gaza City, effectively splitting the densely populated area into two as they search for Hamas members.
Little information has been revealed about the invasion, with strict restrictions imposed on media coverage. Despite this, the reality of the situation is evident in the devastation left in the wake of the conflict.
The military’s directive for civilians to evacuate the north and relocate to the southern end of the enclave indicates a prolonged operation. Lieutenant Colonel Ido confirmed that by the time they had reached a cluster of buildings, all the families had left, hinting at the widespread impact on civilians.
Hunting down Hamas
As the soldiers explored the damaged apartment buildings, they uncovered workshops where weapons, including drones, had been manufactured. The extent of the infrastructure used for military purposes was apparent, shedding light on the challenges faced by the Israeli forces.
Amid the ongoing conflict, the resilience and innovative technology of the Israeli military were evident in the heavily armored, windowless vehicle known as a Tiger. Screens connected to external cameras guided the occupants through the tumultuous terrain, demonstrating the adaptability of the forces in the face of danger.
Despite the destructive onslaught, the soldiers displayed an understanding of the complexities of the situation, acknowledging the need for caution in navigating the enemy territory. This approach underpins the arduous and perilous nature of the conflict, with every move requiring meticulous planning and careful execution to ensure the safety of the troops.
