Israeli Army Entered Gaza City, Carry Out Close Battles With Hamas

An IDF official spoke about the fighting in the center of the sector's main city.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), after encircling Gaza City, entered the town to conduct military operations against Hamas. IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari told The Hill that some Israeli army units are already operating in central Gaza.

“Our forces kill terrorists in close combat, in any place where combat is required, even if it is difficult, the IDF and its soldiers have the advantage,” Hagari said.

He said there were also bomb disposal engineers in Gaza to “destroy and neutralize explosives and other hazards” to allow troops to move more freely around the city.

IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi said Israeli forces were already operating in central Gaza City and fighting “toe to toe” with Hamas militants.

Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7. The Israel Defense Forces responded by launching Operation Iron Swords, and the country declared a state of war. The IDF ground operation in the Gaza Strip began on the evening of October 27.