Negotiations with Hamas – What's the Current Situation in Gaza

Despite ongoing negotiations, the IDF continues operations in Gaza: within 24 hours, eight targeted killings and the destruction of five weapons depots, including one near a hospital in Deir al-Balah. The army claims Hamas systematically uses civilian infrastructure.

Despite reports of progress in negotiations for a long-term settlement, fighting in the Gaza Strip continues. As military correspondent Avi Ashkenazi notes, the IDF is actively responding to Hamas's actions, increasing pressure and aiming to harm all those involved in the events of October 7, writes Maariv. Over the past 24 hours, the Israeli Air Force, under the joint direction of Shin Bet and the Southern Command, carried out a record number of targeted killings—eight strikes in both the north and south of the enclave. In parallel, the IDF conducted a large-scale night operation, attacking Hamas weapons depots for the second time. Five storage facilities were destroyed, containing Kalashnikov rifles, explosive devices, anti-tank grenade launchers, and ammunition. The military paid special attention to a depot near the Shuhada al-Aqsa hospital in Deir al-Balah. According to the IDF, the site served as a shelter for terrorists. The statement emphasizes that this is an example of 'systematic use and integration of Hamas into civilian infrastructure, including medical institutions.' The destroyed weapons were intended for plots against IDF forces in the 'Yellow Line' area and against Israeli civilians.