Israeli Forces Foil Hamas Attack in Gaza, Preventing Major Hostage Crisis

In a swift and decisive response, Israeli forces successfully prevented a potentially catastrophic terrorist attack on a military shelter in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza. The incident occurred Tuesday morning when approximately 15 armed militants emerged from a tunnel mere meters away from an outpost manned by soldiers of the elite reconnaissance unit, Sayeret Haruv.

The attackers, equipped with machine guns and anti-tank weapons, aimed to infiltrate the post and capture soldiers. During the ensuing gunfight, three Israeli soldiers sustained injuries, with one classified as moderate and two as light. In the clash, nine of the attackers were killed, while the rest retreated.

As part of a coordinated strategy, Israeli forces deployed a UAV to track the fleeing terrorists, while airstrikes continue to target escapees. This attempt is seen as part of a broader series of attacks reportedly orchestrated by Hamas, intended to exploit daylight hours when forces are least prepared. Military officials cited the rapid response as crucial in avoiding a large-scale incident with significant casualties and hostages.

(With inputs from agencies.)