The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) carried out massive airstrikes overnight (Thursday into Friday) targeting Hamas terror infrastructure in northern Gaza, as part of a cabinet-approved escalation in the ongoing war. The strikes focused primarily on Beit Lahiya and Jabalia, areas long considered central to Hamas operations. According to the IDF, the strikes aimed to destroy underground infrastructure and prevent future attacks.
It Feels Like the First Days of War
“It’s like the first days of the war—intense airstrikes, nonstop shelling, earth-shaking bombs, low-flying jets skimming above our heads,” said one Gaza-based journalist describing the scene.
The power of the blasts was so intense that residents of Be’er Sheva, nearly 40 kilometers away, reported feeling the tremors in their homes. Locals described walls shaking and windows rattling from the distant impact of Israeli airstrikes.
Was Sinwar Killed?
Earlier this week, the IDF targeted a tunnel complex in Khan Younis, reportedly used by Mohammad Sinwar, brother of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. While Palestinian sources have suggested that Sinwar may have been killed, Hamas has refused to confirm or deny the reports, maintaining ambiguity about his status. Sources say the tunnel system was a highly sophisticated underground network rebuilt after Operation Protective Edge. It included oxygen supply systems to allow extended survival in the event of collapse or attack.
UAE Foreign Minister: “First, Get the Hostages Out”
In an interview with Fox News, UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed commented on the unfolding crisis in Gaza: “The first priority is to get the hostages out. We need calm in Gaza, and leadership that is not Hamas. If we can contribute ideas or support—we are always ready.”
