Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has officially declared the end of the “intense phase” of the ongoing military operations in northern Gaza.
This announcement includes a commitment to cease the ground offensive in the south, specifically targeting the city of Khan Younis.
The declaration follows over 100 days of relentless warfare initiated by Hamas, resulting in a staggering toll of nearly 1,200 casualties since October 7.
The conflict has seen over 24,000 lives lost in Gaza, with Israel attributing more than 9,000 of these casualties to Hamas and its affiliated groups.
Having previously asserted victory over all Hamas battalions in the north, Israel now aims to eliminate the last remaining forces, with a focus on dismantling the leadership of Hamas.
Gallant highlights the destruction of Hamas’ military infrastructure in central Gaza, targeting rocket production sites and explosive facilities.
The military’s attention is now shifting towards what Gallant refers to as the “head of the snake” – the leadership of Hamas.
Strategic moves to cut off roads leading to Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have sought refuge, aim to isolate Hamas and restrict its activities further.
However, Hamas responds with psychological tactics, releasing a distressing video featuring the bodies of two Israeli hostages and a third reading from a script.
The Israeli army denies the claims, sparking division within the military cabinet on the appropriate course of action.
Former Chief of Staff Benny Gantz and his successor Gadi Eisenkot advocated for a new deal for the hostages, even if it meant a prolonged ceasefire.
In contrast, the Likud party, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister Gallant, opposes concessions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining military pressure for negotiations.
The fate of the hostages has become a contentious issue, with discussions considering a Qatari proposal involving a truce, a road map for ending the war, exile for Hamas leaders, and Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza.
Minister Gallant also stresses the need for a clear policy regarding the future of the Gaza Strip, warning that political indecision may hinder military progress.
He asserts that any future government in Gaza must be Palestinian-led.
As tensions persist and the conflict evolves, the Israeli cabinet grapples with the delicate balance between military strategy, hostage negotiations, and the geopolitical future of the Gaza Strip.
The international community watches closely as the situation unfolds, awaiting the next steps in this complex and challenging conflict.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members