Since the conflict erupted on October 7, the toll on human lives has been substantial, with close to 21,000 casualties reported in Gaza, according to local health officials. The war was triggered by surprise attacks from Hamas on southern Israel, resulting in significant loss of life and the taking of hundreds of hostages.
Halevi stressed that there are no quick fixes or shortcuts in the process, underscoring the importance of steadfastness and determination in the fight against terrorism. (Related: Israel’s GENOCIDE in Gaza leads to rising global pro-Palestine sentiment.)
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed these sentiments, asserting that the war with Hamas is far from concluded. Netanyahu emphasized the necessity of destroying Hamas, demilitarizing Gaza and deradicalizing Palestinian society to establish conditions conducive to lasting peace.
The prime minister's remarks underscore the gravity of the objectives pursued by Israel in the conflict.
Halevi shared insights into the strategic approach of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), mentioning the expansion of operations into central and southern Gaza following the successful dismantling of most Hamas battalions in the northern part of the Palestinian enclave.
He outlined the achievements of the IDF, including the elimination of numerous terrorists and commanders, the surrender of some to Israeli forces, and the capture of hundreds of prisoners. Additionally, the IDF has successfully destroyed numerous underground infrastructures and weapons.
Acknowledging the complexity of the territory in which the war is waged, Halevi emphasized the necessity of employing diverse methods to ensure that the goals achieved will be sustained for an extended period. This recognition of the intricate nature of the conflict underscores the challenges and strategic considerations driving the prolonged timeline for the war.
Israel shifts focus on southern Gaza
Meanwhile, Israeli aircraft conducted overnight airstrikes on the southern Gaza Strip, indicating potential preparations for an expansion of the military's ground offensive.
Despite growing international pressure to de-escalate the conflict and domestic calls for a deal to free hostages held in Gaza, Netanyahu and other leaders vowed to continue the fight.
The military appeared ready for an intensified push into the central and southern parts of the Strip.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, addressing Knesset lawmakers, characterized the conflict as a "long, tough war" with heavy costs but emphasized its justification.
He stated that Israel would continue to punish Hamas for its October 7 attack, whether it takes months or years. Gallant also mentioned that Israel was engaged on "seven fronts" and had retaliated on six of them.
The overnight airstrikes targeted over 100 Hamas sites in the southern Gaza Strip, serving as support for ground forces, according to the Israel Defense Forces.
Residents of central Gaza reported a night of shelling and airstrikes in areas like Nuseirat, Maghazi, and Bureij, where many people had fled from the north.
The military is believed to be shifting its offensive toward Khan Younis, the largest city in southern Gaza, where leaders of the Hamas militant group are suspected to have fled.
Visit WWIII.news for the latest updates about the Israel-Hamas war.
Watch this footage from Shejaiya, east of the city center in Gaza.
This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth on Brighteon.com.
More related stories:
UNRWA warns of growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid continued Israeli bombings.
U.S. denounces Israel’s expanded military operations amid rising civilian deaths in Gaza.
Israel wants U.S. and Western allies to take in Gaza refugees.
Sources include:
Please contact us for more information.
