Netanyahu Launches New Offensive, Targeting ‘Terror Infrastructure’ as he Heads to Washington
The IDF issued orders for the evacuation of a humanitarian area near Khan Yunis in southern Gaza, home to 1.8 million people, primarily refugees.
The Israeli army conducted air raids on terrorists launching attacks from Khan Yunis, designated as a humanitarian safe zone.
Prior to the offensive, the army instructed the estimated 1.8 million refugees in southern Gaza to temporarily vacate the area to target Hamas units within the refugee hub. This area has been a battleground between IDF and Hamas forces since Oct. 7 and comprises tent camps lacking basic amenities.
The offensive in the humanitarian zone was prompted by intelligence showing terrorist activities, including rocket launches by Hamas. Following this, the IDF engaged in coordinated military actions above and below ground in the area.
The Gaza Health Ministry reported 70 fatalities and over 200 injuries from the IDF attack. The IDF targeted more than 30 terror infrastructure sites, including locations from which rockets were launched towards Israel.
The rubble in Khan Yunis area revealed traces of the poliovirus in local sewage samples, although no cases have been reported yet. The IDF confirmed the virus’s presence and prepared polio vaccinations for its troops and Palestinian civilians with the help of aid organizations.
Amidst stalled ceasefire negotiations, the order to evacuate on July 22 coincided with Israeli participation in the Olympics and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington for discussions with President Joe Biden.
President Biden has encouraged ongoing ceasefire talks between Netanyahu and Hamas, following the Oct. 7 invasion by Hamas resulting in civilian casualties and Israeli vows to neutralize Hamas military strength in Gaza.
Israel retaliated against a Houthi drone attack in Yemen on July 20, targeting the Houthi stronghold of Hodeidah. The strikes were in response to a series of Houthi attacks and the use of Hodeidah for Iranian arms transfers to Yemen.
Israeli athletes at the Paris Olympics received heightened security measures following threats, 52 years after the tragic 1972 Munich games massacre of Israeli athletes by Palestinian terrorists. A Canadian national was killed after attempting a stabbing near the Gaza border.
