Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant Warns of Prolonged Gaza Conflict

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant Warns of Prolonged Gaza Conflict, Highlights Israel's Targeting on Seven Fronts

In a significant development in the ongoing Gaza conflict, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant cautioned on Tuesday that the war could extend for years, emphasizing the high stakes involved. The Israeli military has intensified its aerial and ground operations against Hamas strongholds in Southern Gaza, despite claims of having substantial operational control in the northern sector after 80 days of warfare.

The Israeli Air Force conducted overnight airstrikes in South Gaza as part of preparations for an expanded ground operation. Continuous fighting near Gaza City challenges the military's assertions of control over the northern areas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other leaders vow to continue the fight, undeterred by international pressure for conflict resolution and domestic calls for negotiating the release of hostages in Gaza.

Galant, addressing the Knesset members, underscored the war's challenging and prolonged nature, justifying the high costs involved. He committed to punishing Hamas for its October 7th attack, irrespective of the conflict's duration. Galant also highlighted that Israel faces challenges on "seven fronts," with responses already made to six.

The Israeli military confirmed that its air raids targeted over 100 Hamas sites in South Gaza to support ground forces. Residents of central Gaza reported a night of intense bombings and air raids, particularly in densely populated areas with displaced persons from the northern sector.

The military operations focused on targeting tunnel openings, military sites, and other infrastructure used by militants to attack Israeli forces.

The Israeli army is believed to be shifting its focus to Khan Yunis, Southern Gaza's largest city, suspected of harboring many Hamas leaders. In a significant operation in Khan Yunis, the Israeli military's Seventh Armored Brigade directed air strikes to eliminate over ten Hamas elements swiftly. In another incident, the "Givati" Brigade detected a Hamas cell approaching a building used for weapon storage, leading to an aerial strike on the site.