Israel "Ground forces conduct surprise operation in Gaza Strip... 222 hostages confirmed"

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on the 23rd (local time) that ground troops conducted limited surprise operations overnight within the Gaza Strip.

According to local media reports, Daniel Hagari, an IDF spokesperson, stated at a press briefing that day, "The airstrikes focused on locations where Hamas militants had gathered in preparation for an Israeli ground invasion." This is the first time the IDF has disclosed the execution of ground operations within the Gaza Strip.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Spokesperson Hagari added, "Fourteen trucks carrying water, food, and medical supplies entered the southern Gaza Strip through the Rafah crossing last night," and said they are monitoring to prevent Hamas from accessing these relief supplies. He also warned that humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip would be immediately halted if Hamas interferes with the relief goods.

He further stated, "So far, 222 hostages held by Hamas have been confirmed." According to local media, a significant number of these hostages are foreigners, and it has taken time to identify their identities.

When asked whether the ground operation is being delayed to buy time for additional hostage releases, Hagari responded, "We are employing all possible methods to free the hostages and bring them home."

The IDF is amassing large forces near the Gaza Strip border in preparation for ground combat.

On the 21st, the IDF declared, "Starting today, we will intensify airstrikes to minimize risks to our forces in the next phase of the war."

One Israeli soldier was killed and three were injured in this attack.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.