Israel expands military operation in Gaza following wave of strikes

The Israel Defense Forces has deployed another division to the Gaza Strip following overnight strikes on the enclave’s south, with Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stating on Wednesday morning that “Operation Strength and Sword” is being expanded. Israeli forces will move to secure wider areas to reinforce buffer zones along the border, with the aim of weakening terrorist infrastructure and pressure local communities to distance themselves from Hamas while supporting the return of hostages, he said.

On Wednesday, the IDF reported that troops eliminated an armed terrorist who approached the security fence in southern Gaza. According to the military, the suspect posed a threat and was shot before reaching the fence. No Israeli injuries were reported.

Also on Wednesday, the IDF and Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) confirmed a targeted strike on Hamas operatives in Jabalia. According to a joint statement, the terrorists were located in a command center used to coordinate attacks and serve as a key meeting point for the group’s leadership. The compound, operated by Hamas’ Jabalia Battalion, was also used to plan attacks on Israeli civilians and troops, according to the statement.   (Read More)