Israeli military intensifies Gaza City offensive

The IDF chief of staff announced the next phase of the Gaza operation, focusing on intensified attacks against Hamas in Gaza City.

On 17/8, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), addressed troops during a field visit to Gaza. "Today, we approved the plan for the next stage of this conflict. Like recent operations in Iran, Yemen, Lebanon, Judea and Samaria, and Gaza, we will continue to reshape security realities," he said.

"We will maintain the momentum of Operation Gideon's Chariots, focusing on Gaza City. We will continue to attack until Hamas is completely defeated, and the hostages remain our top priority."

IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir during a field visit to Gaza on 17/8. Photo: IDF

IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir during a field visit to Gaza on 17/8. Photo: IDF

"We will intensify attacks against Hamas in Gaza City until they are completely defeated," Zamir stated. He added that this was not an isolated operation, but part of a long-term, planned strategy with a multi-front vision targeting all elements of Iran's "Axis of Resistance".

Zamir thanked the soldiers for their service in Gaza and reiterated the return of hostages as the highest priority. "You have fought for almost two consecutive years, achieving unprecedented results, bringing security to the communities near the Gaza Strip and to all the people of Israel. I am proud of you," he told the soldiers. "The IDF bears the moral responsibility to bring the hostages home, both living and dead."

This visit occurred less than a week after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced the plan to take over Gaza City, despite international opposition. The plan, approved by the Israeli Security Cabinet, authorizes Defense Minister Katz to call up over 400,000 reserve troops for the operation until 30/11.