Why it matters
Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announces the nearing conclusion of the “intensive phase” of the military operation in Gaza’s north and updates on imminent end to similar efforts in the south, underscoring the importance of maintaining pressure on Hamas for a potential hostage deal and emphasizing a decisive victory.
Ground operations winding down
Gallant confirms that after three months of ongoing operations, the most rigorous part of the operation in northern Gaza has concluded, with efforts in southern Khan Younis soon to follow. The focus remains on neutralizing all remaining Hamas operative resistance, with robust actions currently in central Gaza dismantling Hamas’ military capabilities.
Paving the way for victory
With the dismantling of all Hamas battalion structures in the north and concentrated efforts to tackle Hamas leadership in the south, Gallant envisions no military threat persisting from Gaza post-conflict. Yet, he accentuates the significance of military strength in securing the release of hostages still held by Hamas, hinting at stagnation in negotiations in the absence of force.
Humanitarian concerns
The conflict, rooted in a large-scale October 7 attack by Hamas, resulted in several civilian casualties and hostages, triggering a robust military response from Israel. Disclosed figures reflect a substantial toll on human life, raising alarms as the operations extend across the year and explore potential future conflicts along the Lebanon border.
Military adaptation and future governance
The combat strategy evolves, Gallant notes, drawing on intelligence and concrete tactical gains on the ground while looking beyond the conflict on building a Palestinian-led future governance in Gaza — signaling military and political recalibrations based on unfolding developments.
Ongoing preparations
Amid brief respites and reorganization for IDF divisions, Israel prepares for an extended conflict throughout 2024, adapting resources for sustained periods of engagement with Hamas and broader readiness against potential escalations with other regional adversaries.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.