The Israeli Defense Minister, Katz, stated on Tuesday that “Gaza is on fire,” as the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced a comprehensive operation aimed at dismantling Hamas’ infrastructure in Gaza.
He emphasized that Jerusalem “will not be forgiven nor will it retreat until the mission is accomplished.”
Katz elaborated, saying, “Gaza is ablaze. The IDF strikes with an iron fist against terror infrastructure, while soldiers bravely fight to facilitate the release of hostages and the defeat of Hamas.”
Colonel Avichay Adraee, who heads the Arab Media division of the IDF, later confirmed via X that the Army has “begun to dismantle Hamas’ infrastructure in Gaza City.”
He warned that “Gaza City is a perilous combat zone” and urged Palestinians to evacuate, noting that “over 40% of the city’s residents” had already left.
On Tuesday morning, Secretary of State Rubio mentioned that he had departed Israel for Doha, implying that an IDF operation to seize Gaza City was underway.
“The Israelites have initiated their operations there,” Rubio remarked, adding that “there is likely a very limited window of opportunity for negotiation.”
“We don’t have months left, possibly just weeks,” he continued. He expressed a preference for a negotiated solution, hoping for a resolution sooner rather than later but felt time is slipping away.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu confirmed that the military had initiated a “serious operation” in Gaza on Tuesday night.
Netanyahu described Israel as being “at a critical stage in this struggle, and there will be consequences,” as stated by his spokesperson.
On Monday evening, the IDF reported the elimination of 21 senior operatives from the Palestinian Islamic Jihad terrorist organization, which, alongside Hamas, had been involved in attacks since October 7, 2023.
This operation is coordinated by the IDF’s Southern Command, working in conjunction with Military Intelligence, the Israeli Air Force, and the Israeli Security Agency.
Among those killed were key figures responsible for weapon production and military operations, including Mohammad Radwan Ramadan Mushtah and Amir Al Shahm Faiz Wadi.
The IDF also targeted five operatives skilled in weapon production during its latest strikes, which were reported to have hit multiple locations in Gaza City.
Furthermore, Israeli residents reported hearing loud explosions amid the ongoing military action.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sarl highlighted last week that Tel Aviv aims to conclude the conflict based on President Trump’s latest ceasefire suggestions, following the guidelines set by the Israeli Cabinet.
Netanyahu reiterated the Cabinet’s objectives, including securing the return of all remaining hostages, demilitarizing Gaza, ensuring Israel’s security, and establishing a civilian governing body in the region.
On Monday evening, Netanyahu expressed appreciation for Trump’s “unwavering support for Israel’s fight against Hamas and the release of hostages.”
Reacting to a report suggesting Hamas might be using hostages as human shields, Netanyahu remarked, “I hope Hamas leaders are aware of the grave situation they are in if they pursue such actions.”
The hostages, taken during the October 7 assault, have now endured 711 days in captivity, and estimates suggest that around 20 may still be alive.
