Intense Conflict in Gaza Continues as Mediators Push for Cease-Fire
The IDF intensified its attacks on Gaza, risking the ongoing cease-fire negotiations that have been gaining momentum in recent days. Hamas expressed concern over the increased military pressure by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as talks for a cease-fire approached.
The IDF continued its heavy artillery bombardment of Gaza City, maintaining military pressure leading up to new cease-fire discussions. Over the past week, the IDF reported on July 9 that its soldiers engaged in close-quarters combat with over 150 terrorists both above and below ground in the Shejaiya area.
During the operation, the IDF destroyed terrorist infrastructure, encountered and dismantled booby-trapped buildings and explosives, and uncovered numerous weapons and intelligence documents. They also located and destroyed six tunnels, around six kilometers in total length, used by terrorists, including some command and control centers.
The intense fighting and evacuation orders issued by Israel forced thousands of residents to flee their homes in Gaza City. Several hospitals and medical clinics were closed as a result of the conflict.
Hamas claimed that the ongoing clashes were jeopardizing the progress of the cease-fire negotiations. Mediators from Qatar and Egypt are working towards a deal that aims to end the conflict between Israel and release Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
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Hamas leader, Ismail Haniyeh, stated that Israel’s assault could derail the negotiation process.
In the north, Hezbollah, the Lebanese terrorist group, reported that a former personal bodyguard of its leader was killed in an Israeli strike in Syria. Details of the incident were not immediately disclosed by Hezbollah.
Furthermore, a Syrian government radio station mentioned an Israeli drone strike on a vehicle in Syria near the Lebanese border. The attack reportedly resulted in the death of two Hezbollah members and injuries to the Syrian driver.
Formerly a bodyguard for Hassan Nasrallah, Qranbish was reportedly a senior operative and potential commander in Hezbollah Unit 4400, responsible for transporting weapons to Lebanon. His death prompted Hezbollah to launch rockets and drones towards Israel.
Hezbollah also shared video footage showing surveillance of Israeli military sites in the Golan Heights captured by their drone. The group had previously released videos of Israeli locations, including Haifa’s airport and sea ports.
Amid escalating tensions, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant approved a plan to enlist ultra-Orthodox Jews into the military. This decision is expected to stir controversy within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition.
The move to draft ultra-Orthodox individuals could strain relations with two ultra-Orthodox parties that advocate for religious draft exemptions to preserve their traditional customs.
With the Israeli military heavily reliant on reserves due to conflicts with Hamas and Hezbollah, the need for additional troops is evident. Many Israelis support the idea of sharing the burden of military service equally, especially in light of ongoing conflicts.
The Supreme Court of Israel recently ruled in favor of drafting ultra-Orthodox seminary students into the military.
Mr. Gallant’s directive involves the screening and evaluation of potential recruits who typically begin military service at age 18.
The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.
