Israeli Strike on Hamas Stronghold
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out a major operation in Gaza City this week, destroying a vast network of underground tunnels belonging to top Hamas terrorist officials.
According to a statement released by the IDF, the Yahalom Unit of the Combat Engineering Forces discovered the “Elite Quarter” of Hamas on Wednesday and proceeded to destroy it in a controlled demolition on Thursday.
The “Elite Quarter” was a complex network of tunnels that connected various hideouts, bunkers, and facilities belonging to senior members of the Hamas terrorist organization. The IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated that this was a significant blow to Hamas, as it deprived them of strategic capabilities.
The Israel Air Force (IAF) released footage of their successful operation, which was carried out by the Shaldag Unit, the 401st Brigade, Shayetet 13, and Yahalom. The footage showed the troops securing the area of “Palestine Square,” an area surrounded by buildings that served as command-and-control centers, terror tunnel shafts, and strategic Hamas buildings.
The IAF stated that their troops have been operating in the Rimal area of Gaza City for several weeks now, eliminating over 600 terrorists from the ground and air. They also made the alarming discovery of a large tunnel network connecting Hamas hideouts, bureaus, and leader’s apartments.
WATCH- @IDF: "IDF troops have secured control over Hamas' "Elite Quarter" in the center of Gaza City, including the area of the ‘Palestine Square’, from where Hamas’ administrative and military leadership operated. The complex includes a large network of tunnels that connects… pic.twitter.com/zNmYa0E5Ug
— Israel War Room (@IsraelWarRoom) December 20, 2023
The destruction of the “Elite Quarter” is a severe blow to Hamas, who have been launching relentless rocket attacks on Israel for over a week. The IDF continues to intensify their ground operations in northern and southern Gaza, with the aim of eliminating terrorist threats and protecting Israeli citizens.
The IDF spokesperson emphasized that since the end of the operational pause on ground operations, their forces have successfully eliminated over 2,000 terrorists from the air, sea, and land. He also stated that this latest operation was a part of their ongoing efforts to target and destroy Hamas infrastructure, crippling their ability to continue their attacks on Israel.
This news of the destruction of the “Elite Quarter” has brought some brief respite to the citizens of Israel, who have been living under constant threat and fear for their lives for over a week. The international community has shown support for Israel’s actions, understanding their need to protect their citizens from terrorist attacks.
The IDF has vowed to continue their operations until peace and security are restored to the region. They have also urged civilians in Gaza to stay away from areas where Hamas operates, as their forces continue to target and destroy terrorist infrastructure.
As the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, the IDF remains steadfast in its mission to protect its citizens and eliminate terrorist threats.