Israel unleashes new 'iron fist', launches Gideon Tank campaign in Gaza
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has announced a new bombing campaign in the Gaza Strip, dubbed "Gideon's Chariots", with the alleged goal of "conquering" the entire Palestinian territory from Hamas.
The move comes after a ceasefire brokered by the US, Egypt and Qatar expired in March.
In a statement on the evening of May 16 (local time), the Israeli military said: "Over the past day, the IDF has carried out widespread attacks and mobilized forces to seize strategic areas in the Gaza Strip, as part of the opening steps of Operation Gideon Tank and the expansion of the operation in Gaza."
The IDF reiterated its goals of securing the release of the remaining hostages and achieving “the defeat of Hamas.”
“The IDF Southern Command will continue to operate to protect Israeli citizens and carry out the objectives of the war,” the Israeli military added.
According to The Times of Israel, the IDF aims to “conquer” Gaza, relocate Palestinians to the southern part of the strip, and prevent “terrorist groups” from seizing humanitarian aid.
Meanwhile, Al Jazeera news agency reported that at least 115 Palestinians have been killed since dawn on May 16.
A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas collapsed in March after the two sides failed to agree on implementing the second phase of the deal.
Israel declared war on Hamas after a surprise attack by Palestinian gunmen on October 7, 2023, which left about 1,200 people dead and more than 200 taken hostage.
According to sources, more than 53,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict began. Human rights organizations have accused Israel of actions that amount to genocide.