Overnight, the IDF expanded its ground activities in the northern Gaza Strip and advanced deeper into Gaza than it had previously during the current war against Hamas. At the same time, the aerial bombardment of terrorist targets in Gaza continued.
A military source said that the operation is being carried out to strengthen the IDF's control over all areas in Gaza where security forces operate.
Last night (Saturday), IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi stated that "this is a war with multiple stages. Today we move to the next one. Our forces are currently operating on the ground in the Gaza Strip. These activities are being supported by precise and heavy fire, all in service of the war’s objectives - dismantling Hamas, securing our borders, and the supreme effort to return the hostages home."
"The ground forces are currently carrying out an important and complex operation. The objectives of this war require a ground operation. Achievements demand risks and, as we know, every victory comes at a price. In order to expose and destroy the enemy, there is no other way than to enter its territory with force. This action serves all the purposes of the war," Halevi said.
Rocket fire from Gaza resumed this morning (Sunday) after about eight hours of quiet when red alert sirens were activated in the Netiv Ha'Asara area.
Meanwhile, overnight, the IDF attacked Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, in response to the multiple attacks against northern Israel over the last 24 hours.
Syrian media also claimed that Israeli airstrikes targeted Quneitra in southern Syria overnight.