The Israeli army announced on Thursday its preparations for a potential ground assault on Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip, signaling a shift in the ongoing conflict. While the decision has not been finalized by political leaders, the military’s campaign focuses on “taking out” the senior leadership of Hamas, including top government officials.
Army spokesman Richard Hecht stated, “We are waiting to see what our political leadership decides about a potential ground incursion. This has not been decided yet… But we are preparing for a ground maneuver if it is decided.” Tens of thousands of troops have been deployed to the Gaza border as part of the military’s extensive air campaign targeting Hamas infrastructure, commanders, and operating centers.
The air strikes, initiated in response to a surprise assault by Hamas fighters that resulted in over 1,200 casualties in Israel, have intensified the conflict. Hamas has reportedly fired more than 5,000 rockets at Israel, and the Israeli air campaign has led to at least 1,354 deaths in the Gaza Strip, according to the latest figures from the Hamas-affiliated health ministry.
Hecht emphasized that Israel is gearing up for the next stages of war, preparing multiple operative contingency plans. The possible operation could involve air, sea, and combined maneuvers. The military’s current focus is on dismantling the senior leadership of Hamas, with specific attention given to Gaza chief Yahya Sinwar, who is directly connected to the recent attack.
Chief military spokesman Daniel Hagari reiterated the army’s objectives, stating, “We are crushing Hamas’ ability to function as sovereign.” The military aims to weaken Hamas’s control over Gaza, emphasizing that they will persist until the group can no longer govern the entire territory.
In continued hostilities, Israel and Hamas exchanged fire on Thursday, with air strikes targeting Palestinian refugee camps in the Gaza Strip. Additionally, Israel imposed a “complete siege” on the Palestinian territory, cutting off essential supplies, including electricity, water, and fuel. The situation remains tense, with the potential for further escalation as the conflict unfolds.
