What’s happening:

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continue to intensify their operations against Hamas in western Khan Yunis, with the latest offensive resulting in the deaths of numerous Hamas combatants.

Why it matters:

Reminiscent of the fierce clashes of December, the ongoing IDF push in Khan Yunis reflects Israel’s strategic efforts to dismantle Hamas’s military capabilities in the region. This recent engagement highlights Israel’s continued commitment to combat Hamas’s presence despite significant IDF casualties in central Gaza.

The big picture:

Supported by Division 98’s full spectrum of military assets, including seven brigades, artillery, tanks, and air support, the IDF has exerted considerable pressure on western Khan Yunis. The focus on this locale, previously avoided by the IDF, signals an awareness of the challenging urban combat environment and its symbolic relevance to Hamas’s leadership. Despite the complex terrain and proximity to civilian areas, the IDF operations underscore a decisive bid to weaken Hamas’s organized military infrastructure.

On the ground:

Reports indicate that more than 100 Hamas militants have been killed over the course of the IDF’s operation, with a dual focus on eliminating ambush units equipped with heavy weaponry as well as engaging Hamas fighters at close quarters. Ongoing airstrikes also prepare the way for ground forces to move deeper into contested areas.

Between the lines:

While the IDF has launched a new major offensive in Khan Yunis, there is no clear indication of immediate plans to extend operations to Rafah or secure the Philadelphi Corridor. Moreover, IDF statements have thus far been measured regarding progress towards captives or a direct reach toward Hamas’s top echelon, suggesting that current operations are designed to increment pressure rather than deliver a decisive blow to its leadership.

What’s next:

Although the IDF has been actively contending with significant challenges, including dense urban conditions and civilian presence, lessons learned from prior engagements are shaping their approach in this advance. The primary objective appears centered on disrupting the Khan Yunis Brigade’s capacity to maintain composure as a functional fighting force.

Context:

For the past several weeks, IDF offensives in Khan Yunis have primarily concentrated on its northern and eastern districts. The prioritization of western Khan Yunis can be attributed to its strategic significance, housing the native homes of Yahya Sinwar and Muhammad Deif, two primary Hamas leaders.

This story was first published on jpost.com.