Gaza City remains at the center of fierce clashes as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) expand their operations against Hamas. In addition to targeted airstrikes, Israeli tanks have launched heavy artillery fire to dismantle militant strongholds. An estimated 600,000 people remain inside Gaza City, while nearly 350,000 have already fled to safer areas.
Israel announced a major breakthrough in its counter-terror operations, confirming the elimination of Hamas leader Mahmoud Yusuf Abu al-Kheir in a precision airstrike. Abu al-Kheir, identified as the deputy head of Hamas military intelligence, played a central role in planning attacks against Israeli civilians and soldiers. His death is seen as a significant blow to Hamas’s operational command structure.
The IDF has stressed that its primary objective is to dismantle Hamas’s military capabilities while minimizing harm to civilians. To this end, Israel urged residents of Gaza City to evacuate southward, directing them to use the Al Rashid Road, the only route designated safe for civilian passage. A temporary humanitarian corridor that had been opened for 48 hours was closed after thousands successfully evacuated. Israeli officials emphasized that safe passage remains available for those willing to move out of conflict zones.
Heavy airstrikes and artillery fire continue to target Hamas positions embedded in densely populated areas. Despite these challenges, Israel maintains that it is exercising restraint and precision in its operations. A UN official noted that nearly 60,000 civilians have managed to flee Gaza City within the past three days, a reflection of Israel’s repeated calls for evacuation.
Meanwhile, inside Israel, hundreds of citizens staged demonstrations along the border, demanding the release of hostages held by Hamas and pressing for an end to the militant threat. The domestic protests highlight the urgent desire among Israelis to see decisive action taken against terrorist networks.
Security measures have also been tightened beyond Gaza. Following a deadly attack in which a truck driver opened fire on a group of aid workers from Jordan, killing two Israeli soldiers, Israel temporarily shut the border crossing between the West Bank and Jordan. The Allenby Bridge crossing, a key trade route and exit point for Palestinians in the West Bank, has also been closed as a precautionary step to prevent further infiltration attempts.
US Strengthens Military Aid to Israel
In Washington, support for Israel remains robust. President Donald Trump has formally requested congressional approval for a $6 billion weapons package to bolster Israel’s defenses. The proposed deal includes 30 Apache helicopters valued at $3.8 billion, advanced vehicles worth $1.9 billion, and $750 million in additional support for the Israel Defense Forces. This aid package underscores Washington’s commitment to Israel’s security at a time when the country faces mounting threats.
Although some Democratic senators have introduced a symbolic resolution calling for recognition of a Palestinian state, the US administration has reaffirmed its position of standing firmly with Israel. Trump’s move signals continued American support as Israel intensifies its operations in Gaza, determined to neutralize Hamas and restore security for its citizens.
With Hamas losing key leaders and its military infrastructure under relentless pressure, Israel has vowed to continue its campaign until the threat is decisively dismantled.
