Escalation of Conflict in Southern Gaza: IDF Expands Operation Against Hamas

In a significant development, the Israel Defense Force (IDF) announced on Friday that it is intensifying its offensive against Hamas in the Khan Younis area of southern Gaza. The IDF reported a specific incident where they identified a Hamas member just 100 meters away and responded with a targeted drone strike.

The ground offensive, initiated on October 27, was a response to a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7, resulting in 1200 Israeli casualties and over 200 hostages. Since the conflict erupted, the toll on Palestinians has been devastating, with at least 21,320 reported fatalities, primarily children and women, and 55,603 Palestinians injured. The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides engaged in a protracted and deadly confrontation.