Israel inflicting major damage on Hamas in new Gaza offensive

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have recently completed the encirclement of Tel al-Sultan in Gaza, marking a significant advancement in their military operations in the region. The resumption of Israel’s war in Gaza came after the collapse of a two-month ceasefire and a deadlock in negotiations over the release of remaining hostages held by Hamas.

The IDF launched a new wave of airstrikes followed by coordinated ground operations in key areas such as the Netzarim Corridor, Gaza’s northern coastline, and the Rafah district in the south. With expanded support from the United States and favorable shifts in the regional landscape, Israel’s military objectives have evolved from degrading Hamas’s battlefield capabilities to dismantling its ability to govern.

Maj. Gen. Yaakov Amidror (res.), former Israeli national security advisor, stated, “We’ve been fighting them for 10 days. All they’ve managed to do is fire seven rockets. That tells you how much damage we’ve inflicted already.” The IDF reported that most of Hamas’s senior command has been eliminated, and only fragmented units remain, emphasizing that Hamas is no longer functioning like an army.

Israel is now operating under improved conditions both militarily and diplomatically, with Hezbollah weakened, Iran constrained, and strong support from the Trump administration. The IDF has broadened its scope to include targeting Hamas’s political leadership and dismantling the structure that allowed Hamas to govern.

The IDF recently encircled Tel al-Sultan in Rafah, Gaza, to reinforce control and expand the security zone in southern Gaza. Weapons caches, labs, and command centers were seized in the operation, indicating a significant blow to Hamas’s terrorist infrastructure in the area.

Despite tactical gains, Israeli leaders understand that the war cannot eliminate Hamas’s ideology entirely. The ultimate mission is to prevent Hamas from ruling Gaza again and ensure that an internationally backed civil authority replaces Hamas to govern the Strip.

Israeli forces are deeply embedded in Gaza, with simultaneous operations in various regions. The goal is to reach every tunnel, dismantle infrastructure, and neutralize every Hamas terrorist. While achieving this goal may take at least a year, Israeli officials are committed to ensuring the safety and security of their citizens and the region as a whole.

Efrat Lachter, an investigative reporter and war correspondent, emphasized the importance of continued military pressure to bring the remaining hostages home and prevent Hamas from regaining strength. The focus is on suppressing Hamas’s ideology and preventing it from taking root again in the future.

As the situation in Gaza continues to evolve, Israeli forces remain vigilant and determined to achieve their objectives while prioritizing the safety and well-being of their citizens and the region as a whole.