IDF Launches Operation “Gideon’s Chariots”
Overview of the Operation
In the early hours between Friday and Saturday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) officially announced the commencement of Operation “Gideon’s Chariots.” The announcement follows recent preparations by IDF forces and comes after U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to the Middle East. A spokesperson for the IDF indicated that extensive airstrikes had been conducted, alongside ground troop movements to secure significant territories within the Gaza Strip. This operation aims to achieve various objectives, including the release of hostages and the defeat of Hamas.
Escalation of Airstrikes
According to the IDF spokesperson, forces under the Southern Command will continue their operations to protect Israeli citizens and fulfill the mission’s objectives. Reports from Arab media have surfaced, detailing intense bombardments across multiple areas in Gaza, including Khan Younis, Jabalia, and Al-Tuffah neighborhood. Hospitals in Gaza have reported over 250 fatalities within the last 36 hours and more than 120 missing persons.
The air force has increased its operations, with reports indicating that bombings occurred every four minutes during this period. The frequency of strikes has surpassed that of operations preceding the initial maneuver in October 2023. Observers in Gaza have noted a high casualty rate, with numerous wounded reported from the ongoing operations.
Ground Operations and Ongoing Strategy
During the night and early morning, IDF forces reportedly advanced to besiege Jabalia village and refugee camp. Air strikes have been supplemented by heavy artillery fire and naval bombardments, with aerial bombardments occurring at short intervals throughout the day. The intensity of these operations has been felt not only in proximity to Gaza but also in distant areas, with vibrations from explosions reported as far as Ashkelon, Ashdod, and western Rishon Lezion.
The military is poised for further significant action, with the current operations viewed as a preliminary phase. IDF officials have emphasized their readiness to suspend hostilities if negotiations in Doha yield satisfactory results. However, they have also indicated a willingness to escalate their efforts should these talks fail, reinforcing their commitment to substantially intensify military operations.
Current Situation and Humanitarian Impact
As hostilities continue, the humanitarian impact has been severe, prompting urgent international attention. The IDF maintains its focus on military objectives, while the ongoing civilian casualties underscore the challenges of urban warfare and the complexities of military strategy in densely populated areas like Gaza.
In conclusion, Operation “Gideon’s Chariots” marks a significant escalation in the conflict, with implications for regional stability and humanitarian conditions in Gaza and beyond. The IDF’s twin objectives of national security and combatting Hamas remain at the forefront of this ongoing military campaign