Each time they come out from a different place: how the IDF clears Hamas fortifications in the Gaza Strip

The Israeli Defense Forces' ground operation continues in the Gaza Strip. IDF fighters are moving rather slowly to prevent casualties.

IDF General Staff Reserve Lieutenant Colonel Mark Babot said< strong> 24 Channelthat the country cannot risk the lives of its soldiers. Therefore, they move gradually, clearing enemy territory layer by layer.

The war continues according to professional rules of fire. This is a slow war, this is a slow advance, this is a “layer cake,” explained Babot.

Although, of course, Israel wants the operation to end faster.

How long will the IDF ground operation continue

According to the lieutenant colonel, the active phase of the ground operation will continue until the end of January. If we manage to clear Khan Yunis, where the main headquarters of Hamas is located, then even faster. There are two brigades of terrorists there who have not yet participated in hostilities.

However, the situation is significantly complicated by the fortifications of the militants – the worst in 150 years of modern warfare.

Everything there is riddled with tunnels, bunkers, and underground passages. Terrorists emerge from a different place every time. We have losses, unfortunately,” Babot stated.

What is happening in the Gaza Strip: latest news

• Israeli fighters from the 252nd reserve division completely cleared Beit Hanoun in the north of the enclave. They destroyed many terrorists, as well as their weapons depots, command centers and tunnels.
• Before that, the Israeli military discovered the largest Hamas tunnel in history. Its length reaches about four kilometers, the militants have invested millions of dollars in it.
• In addition, fighting is already continuing in the south of the Gaza Strip. IDF soldiers have been working there since early December.