Breakthrough has paved the way for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s upcoming Washington visit next week, although Hamas has yet to agree. The trip primarily aims to celebrate the outcome of the war with Iran and align on further actions.
Initial IDF data points to a significant shift: Hamas loses its grip on the population. Four aid distribution points have been established, flour prices have dropped to their lowest since the war began, and 50 million food packages have been delivered to the Strip.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz are expected to meet with the IDF General Staff Forum, in a discussion set to both congratulate military leadership on the achievements of Operation Rising Lion and determine the next phase of Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza.
In a meeting with senior security officials, the IDF chief of staff is expected to present progress on operations in the Strip, with an emphasis on the following message: Israeli forces are close to completing control over 75% of the Gaza Strip.
The president made the remarks ahead of the upcoming visit to Washington by Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer. Asked whether the Iranians possess enriched uranium near the Natanz nuclear facility, he responded, “That’s the last thing on their minds.”
Hamas' Gaza communication office issued an unusual statement explicitly clarifying that Palestinian clans secured the aid convoys in northern Gaza without involvement from Hamas or other armed organizations.
Sources involved in the diplomatic efforts the terror organization's delay may have been strategic, designed to await outcomes from the Iran conflict.
IDF combat engineers, ages 19-21, killed in devastating IED attack in Khan Younis when terrorist attached explosive to their armored vehicle, marking one of deadliest incidents for ground forces in recent months.
The operation was carried out by Gaza Division forces and additional units, based on intelligence and special capabilities of the Shin Bet.
According to The Wall Street Journal, internal Hamas documents show the terror organization directed up to 25% of humanitarian aid under its authority to its military wing until approximately April 2024.
