The Israeli military launched overnight what it described as the main phase of its operation into Gaza City, with an official estimating on Tuesday that thousands of Hamas fighters were in the territory’s largest urban center.
“The main move into Gaza City is what began last night. We understand there are thousands of Hamas terrorists in Gaza City,” the official said, assessing that between 2,000 and 3,000 militants were operating in the area.
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) southern command troops have intensified activity across central sectors of Gaza City.
“Last night, we transitioned into the next phase, the main phase of the plan. IDF has expanded ground activity into Hamas’ main stronghold in Gaza, which is Gaza City,” an Israeli official said. “We are moving towards the centre,” he added.
