The Israel Defense Forces announced the start of the first stage of a large-scale operation in the Gaza Strip, called "Gideon's Chariots". In particular, it is about taking control of "strategic areas" of the enclave.
The Times of Israel, The Guardian and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported this.
"Over the past day, the IDF launched extensive attacks and mobilized forces to seize strategic areas in the Gaza Strip, as part of the opening moves of Operation Gideon’s Chariots and the expansion of the campaign in Gaza, to achieve all the goals of the war in Gaza, including the release of the hostages and the defeat of Hamas," the IDF said in a statement.
"Israel has announced a major new offensive in Gaza after launching a wave of airstrikes on the territory that killed more than 100 people, in what it said was a fresh effort to force Hamas to release hostages," The Guardian writes.
The IDF also said that the military would continue to operate to "protect Israeli citizens and achieve the war's goal."
Israeli officials told media outlets that the offensive operation "Gideon's Chariots" is aimed at:
- "conquering" Gaza by the IDF and maintaining control over the territory,
- relocating Palestinian civilians to the south of the Strip,
- attacking Hamas militant groups,
- and preventing the terrorist group from taking control of humanitarian aid supplies.
In addition, a video was released showing strikes on targets in the Gaza Strip as part of the military operation.
Who we are: About us, Contacts. How we write news and our principles: Editorial code. We did our best. If you found this valuable – please support us.
To request a correction, please send an email.