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The Israeli Defence Forces have reported that the resumed military operation in the Gaza Strip is limited and serves a strategic function – to put pressure on the Hamas leadership to advance negotiations on the release of hostages. This was reported by the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, citing sources in the IDF.
Controlled tactics and restrained promotion
According to army officials, the forces are acting cautiously and advancing slowly to minimise risks to soldiers. At the same time, the ministry emphasises that there are no plans for a full-scale offensive, and any military solution must be accompanied by political action on the part of the government.
Hamas on the defensive and isolated in ‘humanitarian zones’
The IDF admits that despite its losses, Hamas has not been completely destroyed. The terrorists understand that Israel is interested in negotiating hostage deals, and therefore avoid direct combat. The militants have concentrated their forces in the so-called humanitarian zones, using guerrilla tactics such as sniper ambushes, explosive devices, and sabotage.
In addition, according to the army, the terrorists tried to resume rocket attacks, but so far these attempts have been limited by the low number and poor quality of the shells. The IDF also points out that after the previous ceasefire ended, Hamas was preparing an offensive, but the army’s actions forced it to go on the defensive.
Hostages, the humanitarian situation and Hamas’ responsibility
The army emphasises that strikes in areas where hostages may be held are carefully coordinated. At the same time, Hamas continues to use civilians as human shields – militants operate from the territories of schools, hospitals and other civilian facilities. The IDF notes that all operations against such targets are approved by the military prosecutor’s office, and investigations are ordered in case of violations of instructions.
The army also stressed that it has no intention of bringing the population of Gaza to a humanitarian catastrophe. At present, according to current estimates, the region has sufficient resources to cover basic needs. Negotiations are underway to deliver additional humanitarian aid.
Mass evacuation and loss of control by Hamas
According to the IDF, about 250,000 people have fled their homes since the resumption of hostilities. At the same time, the UN estimates that the number of displaced people reaches 400,000.
There is also a new phenomenon in the Strip – growing dissatisfaction with Hamas’ actions on the part of the civilian population. Compared to previous rounds of the conflict, Hamas police no longer obstruct residents trying to evacuate to the south following Israeli calls. The IDF believes that this is a sign of the terrorist group’s loss of control over the Strip.
