Israeli forces reported eliminating several Hamas operatives and targeting their underground tunnels during recent ground operations in Gaza, according to the latest update from the military in their ongoing conflict with the Palestinian group. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has expanded ground operations in Gaza and rejected calls for a ceasefire in the conflict that began on October 7 after a Hamas terror attack that resulted in 1,400 casualties in Israel. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shared updates on their actions during the ground operations, including the elimination of numerous Hamas terrorists, airstrikes on terrorist targets and infrastructure by the Israeli Air Force (IAF), and strikes on approximately 300 targets, including anti-tank missile posts, rocket launch sites, and underground tunnel-based terrorist compounds.
Reports
suggest that Israeli tanks were seen advancing into the outskirts of Gaza City, particularly in the Zaytun district on the southern fringes. Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasized his government’s stance against a ceasefire, viewing it as surrendering to Hamas. The United States, a key ally, also opposed a ceasefire.
Netanyahu stated, “Calls for a ceasefire are calls for Israel to surrender to Hamas, to surrender to terrorism… this will not happen,” reaffirming Israel’s commitment to continuing the fight until the conflict is resolved.
The conflict began on October 7 when Hamas launched rockets into Israel and its operatives carried out attacks in Israeli border towns, resulting in casualties and abductions of civilians.
Israeli ground forces are now engaged in combat with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, while aerial attacks persist in destroying buildings. Additionally, there are reports of at least 230 hostages being held captive in the Gaza Strip, which serves as a significant political leverage for Hamas, particularly as many of the hostages are foreigners.