Photo: IDF Press Service, Operation Force and Sword
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) are continuing the large-scale Operation Pillar of Defense launched on 18 March. According to the army’s press service, the fighting is currently concentrated in the northern and central parts of the Gaza Strip. Reservists of the 252nd Armoured Division “Sinai” are taking the main part in the operation.
In recent days, IDF forces have eliminated more than 50 militants associated with terrorist groups in the sector, including Hamas.
The Ya’alom engineering special forces units were particularly effective in detecting and destroying a 1km-long Hamas tunnel. In addition, the military found a workshop for the production of missiles and launchers, which served as an important element of the terrorists’ combat infrastructure.
Operation “Power and Sword” is part of Israel’s broader efforts to destroy the Hamas terrorist network, neutralise threats to civilian security, and destroy the underground infrastructure that militants have been building in Gaza for years.
The Israeli military emphasises that during combat operations, the army takes measures to minimise harm to civilians, but adds: “Hamas deliberately uses civilians as human shields, hiding fighters and weapons in residential areas.
