Israel’s military said Friday its ground forces were “expanding their activity” in Gaza in what may be the beginning of a new phase in Israel’s war with Hamas, which started nearly three weeks ago.
Israel’s Chief Military Spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, announced that the Israel Defense Forces have intensified their attacks in the Gaza Strip in recent hours. He stated, “In addition to the attacks that we carried out in recent days, ground forces are expanding their activity this evening. The IDF is acting with great force to achieve the objectives of the war.”
While the full extent of the expanded activity remains unclear, two U.S. officials informed CBS News that this may signal the beginning of a ground invasion.
Simultaneously, there have been reports of internet and phone services collapsing within Gaza due to heavy bombardment, as noted by the Associated Press. Paltel, the Palestine Telecommunications Company, reported a “complete disruption of all communication and internet services” caused by the ongoing bombardment. Friday its ground forces
Earlier on Friday, the Israeli military confirmed that Israeli forces had conducted a ground raid into Gaza for the second consecutive night. This small-scale raid was supported by fighter jets and drones, and the IDF reported striking numerous targets on the outskirts of Gaza City. Importantly, the IDF stated that the small incursion had not resulted in any Israeli casualties. The situation in the region remains dynamic and evolving.