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‘New Phase of War’: IDF launches ground invasion of Gaza

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said the ‘ground in Gaza shook.’

By World Israel News Staff

The IDF on Friday night began ground operations in the Gaza Strip, supported by air and naval forces, with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant saying that Israel had “moved to a new phase” in the war against Hamas.

“The best soldiers, well-trained and prepared, are operating in Gaza,” IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi said on Saturday night.

Overnight Friday, the IDF and Shin Bet killed several senior Hamas terrorists involved in the October 7 massacre that killed over 1,400 Israelis and saw 229 abducted. Among those killed were Atsam Abu Raffa, head of the Hamas aerial array, and Ratib Abu Tzahiba, commander of Hamas’ naval forces for the Gaza City Brigade. Israeli commandos from the elite Shayetet 13 unit also conducted a targeted raid in the southern Gaza Strip, destroying Hamas’ naval terrorist infrastructure.

“The ground in Gaza trembled,” Gallant was cited as saying in a release from his office. “We launched attacks on both surface and subterranean positions, targeting terror operatives across various levels and locations. The directives to our forces are unequivocal: The operation will continue until there is a new order.”

He continued: “As for different regions, we are actively working to protect Israeli citizens and ensure their safety. This is our focus in the north, the central region, and throughout the entire country.”

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The IDF’s objectives include dismantling Hamas, fortifying Israel’s borders, and rescuing the hostages held by Hamas.

“Achievements demand risks, and, as we know, victory comes at a price,” Halevi emphasized. “To expose and destroy the enemy, there is no other way than to enter its territory with force… We will remember to fight with determination, and we will win.”