Israeli Forces Advance Deeper into Gaza City
Israeli troops have moved to within 1.5 kilometers of central Gaza City, advancing from multiple directions as part of efforts to dismantle Hamas.
The BBC reported Wednesday that tanks were spotted near Hamid Junction, close to the United Nations compound in southern Gaza City.
CNN reported that tanks were also seen in the city’s west, near Beach Camp, and south of the Islamic University.
On Wednesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said troops from the Nahal Brigade killed a militant in close-quarters combat, dismantled a compound used to launch rockets, and uncovered firearms, magazines, body armor, and stolen IDF uniforms.
The IDF also reported that an active cell planting explosive devices against Israeli soldiers was eliminated in an Israeli Air Force strike.
The BBC, citing a Hamas official, reported that Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the group’s military commander, has ordered all available fighters across the Strip to converge on Gaza City and prepare for a “final, decisive battle.”
Israel estimates that 3,000 Hamas fighters remain in Gaza City, while Hamas claims the number is 5,000. SOFX could not independently verify these figures.
