Israel has declared a “complete blockade” of the Gaza Strip, as hundreds of thousands of troops prepare for an operation against the Hamas group responsible for recent deadly attacks in Israel.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, after assessing the situation with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Southern Command, announced a “complete blockade” of Gaza, halting the flow of essential supplies like water, food, and electricity into the region.
According to The Times of Israel, Gallant stated, “I have ordered a full blockade on the Gaza Strip. No power, no food, no gas—everything is sealed off. We are dealing with inhumane individuals, and our response is commensurate.”
Additionally, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is conducting extensive airstrikes against Hamas targets across Gaza.
Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the IDF’s top spokesman, revealed that over the past 48 hours, the military has mobilized 300,000 reservists for an unprecedented offensive. He stated, “We have never activated so many reservists on this scale. We are shifting to an offensive posture.”
Hagari mentioned that Israeli forces have regained control over border towns, but sporadic clashes with Hamas continue. He emphasized that the goal is to dismantle Hamas’ military capabilities to strike Israel.
Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus of the IDF stressed that the attacks by the Islamist group warranted an extraordinary response. He outlined that one of the primary objectives of the military operation is to remove Hamas’ control over Gaza. Conricus also expressed optimism about improving the situation for both Israeli civilians and Palestinians.
According to the latest figures, Hamas terrorists have caused over 800 casualties in Israel, with around 260 fatalities during a music festival in Southern Israel on Saturday. In addition, more than 2,500 people have been injured, and over 100 are believed to be held hostage.
On the Palestinian side, RAdm. Hagari reported approximately 4,400 rockets launched at Israel since the conflict began on Saturday. Palestinian authorities claim 493 deaths in Gaza and over 2,751 injuries.
The IDF intends to provide information about the fate of missing individuals, including foreign nationals from countries like Britain, Germany, and the United States, within the next 48 hours.