Deliberate Progress in Gaza’s Southern City

What’s happening:

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are aiming to dismantle half of the militant infrastructure in the city of Khan Yunis, located in the southern Gaza Strip, by the beginning of February. The focus is currently on the northern sector of the city, where they have already made significant strides.

Why it matters:

The operation in Khan Yunis is part of a broader military strategy aiming to diminish the capabilities of militant groups in the Gaza Strip. Achieving operational control over southern Gaza is crucial for Israel’s security. The IDF’s systematic approach in rooting out underground networks is time-consuming but considered the most effective tactic to ensure long-term stability and prevent future conflicts.

By the numbers:

Within approximately two weeks, IDF forces managed to take operational control of large parts of northern Gaza. The next phase of the operation, which includes the southern and western sections of Khan Yunis, is expected to be more intricate, facing a longer learning curve due to unfamiliar terrain.

Strategic operations:

The IDF is proceeding with a comprehensive strategy in each new area they engage in, focusing on dismantling extensive tunnel systems and neutralizing threats. Two battalion commanders in Khan Yunis were eliminated, and several high-value targets have been detained, providing critical intelligence. The geographical importance of controlling key locations such as the Tantzar area and the Salah a-Din junction is emphasized by IDF commanders as essential to the operation’s success.

On the ground:

IDF soldiers are facing resistance from militants using civilian structures for military purposes, including launching attacks on IDF forces. The IDF is relying on a combination of battle intelligence and long-range capabilities to target militant operatives and their infrastructure.

Up next:

The IDF continues to prioritize the destruction of terror infrastructure and the gathering of intelligence to direct future operations. The systematic clearing of Khan Yunis and the broader southern Gaza region is ongoing, with IDF commanders confident in their strategy and the professionalism of their forces.

Big picture:

Israel’s military endeavors in the Gaza Strip, particularly in Khan Yunis, play a critical role in the nation’s defense and counterterrorism efforts. Operations that hinder militant groups’ capacity to operate can contribute to the safety of Israeli civilians and potentially pave the way towards a more stable regional security environment.

This story was first published on jpost.com.