Israel’s military has launched a large-scale ground assault stretching from the northern to southern Gaza Strip, targeting Hamas and other Palestinian armed factions.
This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
“Over the past day, regular and reserve forces launched a large-scale ground operation throughout the northern and southern Gaza Strip as part of the opening salvo of Operation Gideon,” an Israeli army statement said.
The statement noted that Israeli airstrikes had hit “more than 670 Hamas terrorist targets” in Gaza.
“To date, the forces have eliminated dozens of terrorists, destroyed above and underground terrorist infrastructure, and captured controlled areas throughout the Gaza Strip,” it added.
Netanyahu signals long-term military presence
The new offensive is reportedly being led by the Israeli military’s Southern Command. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israeli forces do not intend to “enter and then exit” Gaza, hinting at a possible prolonged occupation.
Netanyahu also stated that Gaza’s population “will be moved, for its own protection,” as part of the plan.
According to unnamed Israeli officials cited by news agencies, the operation aims for the “conquest” of the entire Gaza Strip.
Another key component of the plan includes establishing a new “humanitarian zone” in southern Gaza to serve as an aid base—though this would no longer be managed by independent humanitarian organizations.
The proposed strategy has sparked international backlash.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that the offensive will “inevitably lead to countless more civilians killed and the further destruction of Gaza.”
