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JERUSALEM – The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a large-scale airstrike on Gaza early Tuesday, targeting key Hamas and Islamic Jihad positions. In a coordinated assault lasting just 10 minutes, Israeli fighter jets struck approximately 80 sites across the enclave, marking a dramatic escalation in the conflict.
The operation, which began at 2:10 a.m., focused on neutralizing Hamas’s military infrastructure and leadership. According to IDF officials, the strikes were aimed at mid-level Hamas commanders and political figures responsible for coordinating attacks against Israel.
Precision Strikes Amid Rising Tensions
The air raid, one of the most intense in months, came after intelligence reports indicated Hamas was regrouping and rebuilding its military capabilities. The IDF stated that within the first two minutes of the offensive, dozens of key locations, including weapons depots and command centers, were destroyed.
“The objective was clear—cripple Hamas’s operational capabilities and send a message that any aggression will be met with overwhelming force,” an IDF spokesperson said.
Israeli forces also issued evacuation warnings to Gaza residents, urging them to move westward to avoid active combat zones. The “red zone” designated by the IDF covers areas such as Beit Hanun, Harvat, Hazaa, and Abasan, where Hamas has reportedly fortified positions.
Senior Hamas Figures Targeted
Among those killed in the strikes was Issam al-Da’alis, Hamas’s political prime minister in Gaza, along with Mahmoud Abu Watfa, director-general of the Hamas-controlled Interior Ministry. The IDF also confirmed the elimination of Bahjat Abu Sultan, an operational chief of Hamas’s internal security.
Hamas sources reported additional casualties, including Muhammad al-Jamasi and Yasir Herev, though Israeli officials have yet to verify these claims. Despite the targeted killings, the IDF did not strike Hamas military chief Mohammed Sinwar, who remains a top priority due to his role in holding Israeli hostages.
Escalation and Regional Response
The strikes have triggered heightened tensions across the region, with Hamas vowing retaliation. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz have ordered the military to maintain pressure on Hamas.
“If Hamas continues to hold hostages and plan attacks, the consequences will be severe,” Katz warned.
The U.S. also weighed in, with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt cautioning Hamas against further escalation. “All hell will break loose if Hamas persists in its provocations,” she stated.
What’s Next?
As IDF forces remain on high alert, military analysts suggest Israel is preparing for a prolonged operation if Hamas does not de-escalate. With additional air defenses deployed and tensions mounting, the next few days may determine whether a broader military campaign unfolds.