Israeli army launches major ground operation in Gaza

The Israeli army has begun a large-scale ground offensive in Gaza City as part of “Operation Gideon’s Chariot 2,” the military said.

The operation is aimed at taking control of Gaza City and targeting Hamas strongholds, according to the Israeli Defence Forces

Troops from the 98th Division entered the city with coordinated fire support from air and naval units. Dozens of sites were struck, including military buildings, observation posts and booby-trapped structures. Gaza residents reported heavy bombardment as the ground offensive expanded. Israeli forces are operating across the division’s sector with support from air, ground and naval units.

Earlier on Tuesday, army spokesperson Dafrín said the operation is expected to continue for several months. More than 350,000 civilians have reportedly evacuated the city as part of ongoing safety measures.

Defence Minister Israel Katz said the operation’s objectives include defeating Hamas, securing the release of hostages and disarming the group. Speaking at the headquarters of the 162nd Division, whose forces are operating in Gaza City, Katz said: “From Hamas, we need only two things: to release all the hostages and to disarm. The force of this attack directly targets Hamas and also increases leverage for the release of hostages.”

Katz added that taking control of Gaza City is a key step, describing it as “Hamas’s main governing symbol.”

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