UPDATE: Dozens of Hamas fighters are emerging from Gaza tunnels as Israeli forces intensify their operations. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed that at least 17 Hamas members attempted to escape over the weekend, with multiple reports of casualties.
Emerging from their underground hideouts near Rafah, these fighters face dire circumstances as food and water supplies dwindle. On Wednesday, the IDF air force targeted and killed four terrorists shortly after they surfaced, while two others were apprehended for interrogation. This follows a similar incident on Tuesday, where five Hamas members were killed.
The current situation indicates that the IDF is systematically dismantling the tunnel network that has long been used by Hamas. Reports suggest that as many as 200 armed militants had been trapped underground, struggling with dwindling resources. Israeli officials estimate that only a few dozen remain in the tunnels, signaling a critical phase in the ongoing conflict.
In a related development, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) returned the remains of Israeli soldier Dror Or on Wednesday, who had been held in Gaza since October 7, 2023. This exchange highlights the tension surrounding the ongoing cease-fire negotiations. However, two other bodies, including that of an Israeli soldier and a Thai citizen, remain unreturned.
Israeli officials have long accused Hamas and PIJ of delaying the return of hostages and remains, using the time to re-establish their power in Gaza.
“Hamas is returning to almost complete control of the Strip,”
an IDF official warned during a briefing with Prime Minister Netanyahu’s cabinet.
The urgency of disarming Hamas remains a top priority, yet diplomatic efforts by the U.S. appear stalled. Sources indicate that the American-backed cease-fire strategy is insufficient, and Israel may be forced to take unilateral action. Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, IDF Chief of Staff, noted that troops may have to re-engage in areas they previously fought to control.
As the situation continues to develop, the IDF has been granted control over 53 percent of Gaza territory, pending the establishment of a multinational stabilization force. However, many potential contributors express hesitance about engaging armed groups in Gaza.
WHAT’S NEXT: As Hamas continues to face pressure, the next phase of this conflict could see more violent confrontations. The IDF is preparing for the possibility of renewed hostilities, with officials acknowledging the likelihood of needing to fight again in previously secured areas.
This evolving situation is critical for both Israeli and Palestinian civilians. As tensions rise, international observers are on alert, monitoring for any signs of escalation. Stay tuned for updates as the story develops.
