IDF Reports Major Victory Over Hamas Forces in Gaza Strip, Killing Hundreds During Operation

The IDF reported a major victory over Hamas forces in the Gaza Strip, killing at least 550 fighters from the group. In Rafah, two out of four battalions of Hamas were completely destroyed while the rest had reduced combat abilities. The operation resulted in the deaths of many Hamas fighters, with hundreds killed during raids on buildings and tunnels.

During the operation, the IDF discovered large quantities of rockets and underground tunnels along the Philadelphia Corridor, including long-range projectiles aimed at Israel. There were at least 25 long tunnels leading towards the border with Egypt, potentially used by Hamas for weapons transport. The IDF also claimed control over key areas in Rafah, such as Brazil and NPK, where strongholds of Hamas were located.

Despite international community calls to avoid a ground operation in Rafah to prevent a humanitarian crisis, Israel entered the city which housed over a million refugees. The IDF’s 162nd Division lost soldiers in the operation, with some casualties due to attacks. Tel Aviv’s retaliation followed a previous raid by Hamas, resulting in numerous casualties on both sides.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas has been ongoing for years, with deadly confrontations resulting in significant loss of life on both sides. Despite this, there has been no official comment from Hamas regarding the reports from Israeli army regarding the operation in Rafah.