IDF Intensifies Strikes: Major Gaza Offensive Underway

In a sweeping escalation, Israel's military reported striking approximately 50 targets overnight in Gaza, primarily in Gaza City, totaling 140 targets over the past day. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated these attacks targeted tunnels, terrorist infrastructure, and operative cells as part of a broadened offensive launched yesterday.

Gaza City, considered Hamas' central bastion, faced additional military actions, including a strike on a weapons production site linked to Hamas. During the assault, operatives were reportedly manufacturing explosives. The IDF noted secondary explosions, confirming the presence of armaments within the complex.

Amid the escalating operations, the IDF has facilitated the evacuation of around 400,000 residents from Gaza City, once housing about 1 million people, urging them towards a designated humanitarian zone. Concurrently, the military has countered Hamas' alleged disinformation tactics aimed at stymying evacuation efforts, underscoring the critical nature of civilian relocation for safety.

Efforts continue to disrupt Hamas' operational capabilities by dismantling significant military infrastructure within Gaza City. The recent offensive follows deadly attacks from Hamas on Israeli territories, where approximately 1,200 individuals were killed and scores taken hostage, justifying the deepened military maneuvers as necessary for regional security.

(With inputs from agencies.)