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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-04-24 at 16:05
HEADLINES
IDF Prepares for Gaza Escalation Amid Rising Tensions
Senior Hamas Leader Killed in Israeli Airstrike
Israel Warns Gaza Residents as Calls for Full Invasion Grow
The time is now 12:00 PM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
At noon, Israeli military forces continue their preparations for potential escalation in Gaza amid ongoing ground operations. Despite recent expansion, the Israel Defense Forces have encountered relatively few direct clashes with Hamas militants. Military officials attribute this to their tactical approach: entering combat zones with overwhelming firepower, heavily armored vehicles, and advanced defenses such as Trophy active protection systems on their tanks and personnel carriers. As the IDF begins establishing a more permanent presence, concerns grow that Hamas may increase attacks, employing snipers, anti-tank missiles, or explosive devices, possibly emerging from Gaza’s tunnel networks. Recent incidents include the death of an IDF tracker officer in a suspected IED attack in northern Gaza, signaling an escalation in hostile activity.
In a related development, Israeli forces confirmed the killing of a senior military intelligence figure from the Mujahideen Brigades in an airstrike in northern Gaza. The group announced the elimination of Imad al-Baba, also known as "Abu Ashraf," along with family members. This comes after the IDF and Shin Bet targeted another senior operative involved in the October 7th massacre, emphasizing Israel’s ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist leadership responsible for the recent brutal attacks.
Meanwhile, the IDF has issued a final warning for residents of Beit Hanoun and Sheikh Zayed to evacuate ahead of anticipated large-scale military operations. IDF Arabic spokesperson Avichay Adraee stated that these measures are necessary due to ongoing terrorist activities originating from these areas, explicitly holding Hamas and other groups responsible for civilian suffering resulting from potential military actions.
In the broader context of the conflict, over four thousand Israeli reservists have demanded a more aggressive approach, calling for a swift and comprehensive invasion of Gaza to decisively defeat Hamas and recover hostages. The reservists criticize the current slow pace of operations, which has resulted in fewer than 500 Hamas fighters killed since the renewed hostilities began in mid-March, despite the promise of a more vigorous offensive. They argue that a more intense military campaign is essential to end the conflict and secure the return of hostages, warning that prolonged negotiations and staged invasions risk turning into an endless cycle of warfare.
On the political front, there are ongoing debates about the future course of action. Some security figures and reservists advocate for a full-scale invasion, while others, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, remain cautious, fearing the consequences of a larger assault. The government has not set a firm deadline for escalation, emphasizing the importance of negotiations over hostages, even as the military prepares for the possibility of intensified combat.
In international developments, a missile launched from Yemen earlier this week triggered widespread warning systems in northern Israel, highlighting the regional volatility. Additionally, Israel continues to respond to the recent wildfires in the Jerusalem Hills, which were brought under control after nearly 24 hours, and residents are beginning to return to their communities. The fires, along with ongoing security concerns, underscore the multifaceted nature of the current crisis.
In diplomatic efforts, Israel has confirmed the killing of a United Nations employee in Gaza during a tank fire incident in Deir al-Balah, following a thorough investigation. The militar
Published on 3 weeks, 1 day ago