In a recent development, an air alarm has been declared in southern Israel, according to a Telegram channel of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The alarm is sounding in settlements along the border with the Gaza Strip.
This comes after the IDF announced the discovery of the largest Hamas tunnel in Gaza.
Tensions in the Middle East have escalated since October 7th, when thousands of armed Hamas supporters infiltrated Israeli territory from the Gaza Strip. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a state of war.
Israel’s objective in its counter-operation is to repel the attack, free over 200 hostages (including foreign nationals), and destroy Hamas. From the first day of the operation, Israel has conducted massive rocket bombardments on the Gaza Strip. As part of this effort, the Israeli National Security Council decided to halt the supply of water, food, goods, electricity, and fuel to the region.
On October 27th, Israel announced the “expansion” of its ground operation in Gaza. On November 5th, as part of the ground operation, IDF forces surrounded the city of Gaza, cutting off its supply routes. On December 5th, the IDF launched the third phase of the ground operation, surrounding the city of Khan Yunis in the southern part of the strip.
Previously, Prime Minister Netanyahu outlined Israel’s objectives in the war against Hamas.
