Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) continue their operations in the Gaza Strip, with a focus on countering Hamas, the group controlling the region. The IDF has been actively engaging in combat, particularly in areas like Shejaiya, Gaza City, and Khan Yunis, a noted Hamas stronghold.
In Shejaiya, Israeli troops faced an ambush from terrorists in a school, one run by the United Nations Releif and Works Agency (UNRWA), to which they responded with force. The IDF also released footage showing Hamas militants in the same neighborhood assaulting Palestinian civilians and confiscating their supplies. IDF Arabic-language Spokesman Avichay Adraee condemned Hamas's actions, stating, "Hamas is the enemy of the people in Gaza."
Dear @UNRWA:
— Hussain Abdul-Hussain (@hahussain) December 9, 2023
These gentlemen were Hamas fighters who surrendered. Do you recognize anything familiar in the picture?
I've never been to Gaza, but I know a school fence when I see one (decorated with paintings for children). I also recognize the distinctive UN blue color of the… pic.twitter.com/aN5MUtViOR
Further incidents include Palestinian terrorists firing at Israeli troops from a mosque and another UNRWA school in Beit Hanun. Israeli soldiers discovered a sniper rifle and ammunition hidden inside a teddy bear in one school, and in another, found weapons, some even marked with the UNRWA logo.
In Lebanon, several rockets were fired towards Israel, causing no injuries. The IDF retaliated by targeting the sources of the rockets and using tank fire near Metula. Additionally, Israel Air Force jets struck Hezbollah terror assets in Lebanon, including command and control centers.
Coward Hamas hid weapons in Gaza schools and in a 🧸 @UNRWA you owe the world the explanation! You ran these schools and didn’t say a word about Hamas using you as weapons storage. pic.twitter.com/cyM9E8phzK
— Sarai (Sarah Idan) Miss Iraq (@RealSarahIdan) December 9, 2023
Brig. Gen. Dan Goldfus, leading the IDF’s 98th Paratrooper Division, reported intense combat in Khan Yunis, emphasizing precision and methodical tactics against Hamas terrorists.
Interestingly, many Hamas militants have reportedly surrendered to Israeli forces in Gaza, following a loss of communication with their leadership. This development indicates a potential shift in Hamas's leadership behavior, with senior leaders prioritizing their safety over leading the campaign. It could also mean that they are dead and buried in a bunker as well.
The Palestinian populace appears increasingly disillusioned with Hamas, as evidenced by a radio interview with journalist Muhammad Mansour. According to the Jerusalem Post, Mansour expressed his disdain for Hamas leadership, particularly Yahya Sinwar, and called for the release of Israeli abductees.
Gaza Residents Angry Over War With Israel Direct Fury at Hamas: Reporthttps://t.co/I80e7bcO1M
— Captain Kirk (@Captain99989) December 9, 2023
This ongoing conflict has worsened the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Displaced residents from northern Gaza are seeking refuge in the overcrowded south, particularly near Rafah. The escalating conflict is seen as weakening Hamas's grip on the region, with more Gazans openly criticizing the group.
Overall, the IDF’s actions in Gaza and responses to threats from Lebanon showcase Israel’s continued efforts to combat Hamas and other terrorist threats, amidst a complex and evolving situation in the region.
