Israeli Military Strikes Hamas Operatives in Gaza's Tunnel Network Amid Strong Criticism

Amid growing international criticism due to a worsening humanitarian crisis, Israel has stepped up its operation in the Palestinian enclave of Gaza. The Israeli military announced yesterday a large-scale attack on Hamas gunmen, targeting the militant group's intricate tunnel network beneath Gaza. This move comes after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected calls for a ceasefire.

According to a statement from the Israeli military, over the last day, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have struck around 300 targets. The objectives of the strikes include rocket launch posts, anti-tank missile locations, and military compounds situated within the tunnels. These underground settlements reportedly belong to Hamas, the ruling body in Gaza, and have become a primary objective for the IDF in their ongoing operation.

In retaliation, Hamas militants have reportedly launched anti-tank missiles and gunfire. The IDF stated that their soldiers not only neutralized the attackers but also directed real-time strikes on strategic locations and terror infrastructure.

In addition to the ground offensive, the Israeli forces have conducted intense bombardment over the Gaza territory using air, sea, and ground attacks. An Israeli soldier held captive by Hamas has reportedly been rescued, with four civilians also being released from the 240 hostages believed to have been taken during the October 7 attacks.

The intensification of the conflict continues to take a toll on human lives, with Gaza's health authorities reporting over 8,000 casualties, including thousands of minors, since October 7.

Finally, the Israeli-led operation has drawn widespread international criticism, including calls from the United Nations and the United States for a temporary halt in the fighting to facilitate the delivery of essential humanitarian aid.