What’s happening:

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) successfully executed a strategic incursion into the central area of Khan Yunis, a key Hamas stronghold in southern Gaza. This military maneuver, which occurred on Sunday, was initially kept secret to catch the terror group off guard.

Why it matters:

The IDF’s operation in Khan Yunis represents a significant development in Israel’s ongoing efforts to dismantle Hamas infrastructure and capabilities. The penetration into this vital area disrupts Hamas’s command and control, potentially weakening its operational effectiveness in the region.

The details:

In a complex operation, IDF troops invaded Khan Yunis from the east, forcing Hamas to engage on multiple fronts. This was part of a larger strategy that involved multiple IDF brigades, including forces from Division 162. The ground offensive was supported by intense air strikes aimed at eliminating Hamas’s leadership and command centers.

Concurrent Operations:

Simultaneously with the Khan Yunis operation, the IDF targeted Shejaia, another significant Hamas stronghold in northern Gaza, with substantial forces from Divisions 162 and 36. This assault was timed to coincide with the elimination of the head of Hamas’s Shejaia battalion, maximizing the disruption to the group’s defenses.

Impact on Hamas:

The offensive has resulted in the deaths of several hundred Hamas terrorists on Sunday alone, with total casualties reaching approximately 6,000 dead and thousands more wounded. Hamas’s fighting force is estimated to have reduced to about 20,000 from an original strength of 30,000. Additionally, the IDF is also engaging Islamic Jihad forces in the region.

Strategic Advances:

IDF Southern Command Chief Maj. Gen. Yaron Finkleman highlighted the operation’s intensity, stating the IDF’s presence in the most critical areas of Jabalia, Shejaia, and Khan Yunis. He emphasized the intention to continue the attacks and solidify the IDF’s achievements.

Civilian Measures:

Civilians in Khan Yunis have been instructed to evacuate southward to Rafah and to safer zones to the west of Khan Yunis, indicating a concern for non-combatant safety amidst the operations.

Overall Significance:

This strategic incursion by the IDF into Gaza’s heartland marks a pivotal moment in the conflict, with potential long-term implications for Hamas’s capacity to operate against Israel.

This story was first published on jpost.com.