Israel Launches 'Limited Ground Op' in Gaza After Deadly Airstrikes

Deir Al-Balah: The Israeli military on Wednesday said that it has launched “limited ground operation” to retake control of the Netzarim corridor in Gaza.

The Netzarim corridor, a strategic passage that bisected northern and southern Gaza, had been part of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. 

Israel Launches Offensive To Retake Key Gaza Corridor

Under the terms of this ceasefire, Israel had withdrawn from the area, which had previously served as a critical military zone.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz have instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to take decisive action against the Hamas terrorist group in the Gaza Strip.

Israel Vows Full Military Action Against Hamas

"The decision follows Hamas's continued refusal to release Israeli hostages and its rejection of "all of the proposals it has received from US Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff and from the mediators," according to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office.

Also Read: Israel says More Attacks to Come as Air Strikes Kill Over 400 in Gaza

In response, Israeli forces carried out extensive strikes on Hamas positions throughout the Gaza Strip.

"The IDF is, at this time, attacking targets of the Hamas terrorist organisation throughout the Gaza Strip in order to achieve the objectives of the war as they have been determined by the political echelon, including the release of all of our hostages, the living and the deceased," an official statement added.

Why Israel Ended Gaza Ceasefire

Both Israel and the United States blame the renewed hostilities on Hamas' refusal to release more hostages before negotiations on ending the war proceed — which was not part of the ceasefire agreement.

Israel has accused Hamas of preparing for new attacks, without providing evidence. The militant group has denied those allegations.