What’s happening

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are reporting prolonged heavy fighting in Khan Younis. According to Israeli intelligence officials, the war with Hamas is not expected to subside before the end of 2024, potentially stretching into 2025.

Why it matters

The fighting in Khan Younis, the largest city in southern Gaza, is of particular significance due to the dense network of tunnels that afford Hamas operational sustainability. Moreover, the on-going conflict underscores the broader regional complexity, especially after a recent deadly attack on US soldiers in Jordan by an Iran-backed militia.

The scale of conflict

Israeli intelligence estimates suggest that approximately half of Hamas’ fighting force has been either killed or injured in combat. However, capturing Hamas leaders and taking control of military resources remains a challenge.

Intelligence and operations

The IDF has gathered extensive intelligence on Hamas’ operations, particularly related to their coordination of rocket attacks against Israel. Intricate tunnel systems continue to facilitate these aggressions, with recent Israeli military operations bringing to light new details about their use for strategic planning and habitation by senior Hamas figures.

The bigger picture

This protracted struggle falls in line with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s statement forewarning that the battle against Hamas would “last many more months.” Meanwhile, known Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar has evaded capture despite various IDF operations deterring and disrupting the faction’s militaristic capabilities.

Local and international implications

As Israel decisively continues its missions on the ground and in the air over Gaza, the casualties mount, with reports of over 26,000 Palestinian fatalities, significantly impacting the enclave’s humanitarian situation. This enduring violence also engages Israeli allies and continues to shape foreign policy responses and directives at a global level.

On-the-ground consequences

Recent IDF operations not only uncovered extensive Hamas tunnel systems used for military strategizing but led to combatant casualties during direct engagements, signalling Israel’s fortified efforts in neutralizing imminent threats and addressing its national security priorities with unwavering resolve.

This story was first published on foxnews.com.