Israeli forces have launched raids on the Gaza Strip in preparation for a ground offensive against Hamas. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) posted a video on X, showing airstrikes on Hamas rocket sites while they were being launched. The IDF stated that the raids were conducted to eliminate terrorist cells and infrastructure, and to collect evidence for locating hostages. The video shows multiple rockets being fired by Hamas, which are then destroyed by Israeli airstrikes. The IDF also targeted Hamas terrorist targets and anti-tank missile launchers. These raids come in the midst of Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, with Hamas retaliating by firing rockets. The IDF stated that the raids were part of an effort to cleanse the area of terrorists and weaponry and to locate missing persons. The conflict began when Hamas attacked communities in Israel, resulting in the deaths of over 1,300 Israelis, with Hamas also taking hostages. Retaliatory strikes by Israel on Gaza have led to approximately 1,800 deaths and mass displacement. Israel has warned residents of northern Gaza to evacuate ahead of an anticipated ground offensive, a move condemned by the UN.
