Renewed Violence Unleashed in Gaza as Israel-Hamas Prepare for Ground Offensive

In a sudden escalation of tensions in the Gaza Strip, an underground labyrinth manned by Hamas was used to stage an ambush against Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), in what is being heralded as the first direct confrontation since the inception of the ground offensive. The IDF reported neutralizing multiple terrorists emerging from a tunnel close to the Erez Crossing, a significant point stormed earlier this month.

Uncertainty looms as it is presumed that the militants were attempting to cross the Israeli border to orchestrate another surprise attack. Reports indicate that Hamas militants engaged Israeli troops with an arsenal of small arms and anti-tank missiles in north-west Gaza Strip.

Further, the IDF – with guidance from ground troops- undertook airstrikes aimed at two Hamas staging bases. This move resulted in the termination of multiple Hamas members, as reported by the IDF. The conflict escalated over the weekend, with the IDF deploying troops and tanks to destroy Hamas.

Despite the heightened aggression, the IDF avoided a full-on invasion; reports suggest a "gradual expansion”. The increased hostilities lead to speculations around Israel's tactical considerations, particularly concerning captive hostages and possible threats from Arab proxies supportive of Hamas.

Defence Minister Yoav Gallant reassured families of captives, emphasizing that military pressure on Hamas was crucial for progress and prioritizing the return of abductees. Meanwhile, the coastal enclave witnessed near-total communication blackout due to the conflict.

While tensions are escalating on the Gaza front, IDF claims counteraction against strikes from Lebanon, aimed at military targets allied to Hezbollah.

Significantly, the IDF alleges Hamas of deliberate construction of tunnels adjacent to the Erez Crossing, a crucial route formerly used for work and medical treatment by Gazans. The IDF suggests that the aim was to jeopardize the safety of those in the vicinity. The infrastructure has reportedly taken two decades to construct and boasts entrances veiled beneath civilian households, schools, and mosques. The tunnel network holds lighting, electricity and rail tracks for transit.

Amid the rising chaos, allegations of "psychological games" being played by Hamas have emerged after it offered to release all captives in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. Current assessments reveal that 239 hostages are being held captive.