Israel’s campaign to end Hamas’ reign of terror in Gaza continues. Ynet reports:
The IDF said Wednesday afternoon that it was expanding its operations in the northern Gaza town of Beit Hanoun, days after five soldiers were killed in what appeared to have been part of a pre-planned Hamas ambush, which also targeted rescue forces.
The military said the Givati Brigade’s combat team, under the command of the 162nd Division, has joined 99th Division troops and launched an operation to encircle Beit Hanoun. “The forces are operating to eliminate terrorists and to dismantle terrorist infrastructure and Hamas’ military capabilities in the area,” it said.
Meanwhile, Palestinian sources in Gaza reported that Israeli Air Force jets carried out heavy, continuous bombardment around Beit Hanoun. A series of strikes was also reported in Gaza City proper, although the IDF has not yet extended operations into the Hamas strongholds there. The area has been the site of repeated IDF ground incursions since late 2023, each followed by renewed operations in the absence of a government decision on Gaza’s status.
In his recent meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Netanyahu reiterated that Israel’s goals are bringing home the hostages now held by Hamas for more than 20 months, and total elimination of the terror group’s military capabilities. But Hamas, fueled by hate, is determined, and there is still much work to be done. Please continue to pray for wisdom for Israel’s leaders, for strength and protection for all the Israeli people, and for God’s precious gift of shalom, peace.
