The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have stated that the ongoing operation in Rafah is being conducted with a limited scope, while simultaneous operations are being carried out in two other areas of Gaza.
According to an IDF International spokesman, the operation in the eastern part of southern Gaza has been underway for ten days and is focused on specific locations based on intelligence regarding Hamas presence.
The primary objective of the operation in Rafah is to locate and neutralize tunnel shafts used by Hamas. During the operation, a significant amount of various types of ammunition, including anti-tank missiles, has been seized. The IDF has reported that over 100 Hamas militants have been killed as a result of the operation.
While a broader offensive in Rafah has been anticipated, the IDF is actively engaged in combat in other parts of Gaza to prevent Hamas from regrouping.
Operations are ongoing in Jabalya, located in northern Gaza, and Zeitoun, situated in central Gaza. The recent loss of five Israeli soldiers in Jabalya due to tank fire occurred during intense fighting in a densely populated and complex area.