The Israeli Chief of Staff, Herzi Halevi, has given the green light for ongoing military operations in Gaza, according to an announcement by the military. On Sunday, army spokesperson Daniel Hagari stated that Halevi had "authorized further actions."
Reportedly, the plans entail a military campaign in Rafah, a city situated in the southern Gaza Strip near the Egyptian border. There are indications of an imminent evacuation of civilians from the area.
Despite warnings from Israel's allies, particularly concerning the densely populated nature of Rafah, Israeli authorities deem the operation essential for dismantling remaining Hamas forces. Failure to do so could lead to a resurgence of the Palestinian Islamist organization.
In a direct message to the hostages held by Hamas, the Israeli army spokesperson asserted on Sunday, "Our efforts will persist until you are safely returned home." He acknowledged the anguish of the hostages' families and reassured them that every effort would be made for their liberation.
According to Gaza's health authority, controlled by Hamas, the conflict over the past six and a half months has resulted in over 34,000 fatalities and nearly 77,000 injuries in the region.
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