Israeli Forces Intensify Ground Operations in Gaza; Eliminate Operatives, Target Tunnels

Jerusalem: The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) expanded their operations in Gaza and dismissed the possibility of a ceasefire in the conflict that began on October 7, prompted by a Hamas terror attack in Israel, resulting in over 1,400 casualties so far.

According to the IDF’s statement on social media, their actions included airstrikes on terrorist targets and infrastructure, as well as the striking of around 300 targets, such as anti-tank missile positions, rocket launch sites, and terrorist facilities within underground tunnels.

Over the last day, during ground operations:

🔻Numerous Hamas terrorists have been eliminated.

🔻The IAF struck terrorist targets and infrastructure.

🔻IDF combat forces struck approximately 300 targets, including:

• Anti-tank missiles posts.
• Rocket launch posts.
•… pic.twitter.com/RymFDCFrw1

— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 31, 2023

Reports also indicated that Israeli tanks advanced into the outskirts of Gaza City, specifically the Zaytun district in the south. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that a ceasefire would be perceived as surrendering to Hamas, and the U.S., Israel’s ally, also expressed objections to a ceasefire.

On October 7, Hamas initiated the conflict by launching rockets into Israel and carrying out attacks in Israeli border towns, resulting in casualties and kidnappings. Israeli ground forces are currently engaged in combat with Hamas in Gaza, alongside ongoing aerial strikes that have caused significant damage to buildings. Notably, there are still approximately 230 hostages being held in the Gaza Strip, with the Hamas considering them as a bargaining chip.

Hamas previously released four captives, including two U.S. citizens, and has called for a ceasefire to facilitate the release of these hostages. They proposed a prisoner swap deal that involves the exchange of all Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails for the release of all hostages held in Gaza.