As southern front heats up, IDF drill simulates conquering Gaza City

The IDF launched a series of exercises that simulate the takeover of Gaza City after a weekend of military escalation. 

By: World Israel News Staff

The IDF launched a number of mock military battles on Sunday designed to prepare forces for the conquering of Gaza’s largest city with a population of half a million, in the event that such a military operation is needed.

The military exercises, which the IDF said were planned months ago, come after the most severe uptick in attacks from Gaza since Operation Protective Edge in 2014. About 200 rockets and mortar fire were fired at Israel.

Southern Commander Hertzi Halevi met Beersheba Mayor Ruvik Danilovich and showed him several parts of the exercise, which will take place in Beersheba.

Due to the drill, IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot canceled an appearance before the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee slated for Sunday.

Exercises are planned for other locations around the country as well.