IDF Airstrike Targets Hamas Command Center in Gaza City Amid Escalating Tensions
The IDF has conducted an airstrike against a Hamas command room located within a school in Gaza City, which was being used as a shelter for displaced residents. The IDF reports that the operation involved precise munitions, focusing on a single room and resulting in the deaths of 19 confirmed Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorists. The military asserts that the damage was minimal and consistent with the size of the strike, countering exaggerated casualty figures reported by Hamas.
Hamas initially claimed that the strike caused extensive destruction, with varying reports of casualties ranging from thousands to a few dozen. They described the use of a massive bomb, but the IDF contends that such claims are inflated and not supported by the actual damage observed in post-strike footage.
In response, many Arab countries, along with the UK, Belgium, and France, have condemned Israel’s actions, as they always do. Meanwhile, a Gazan resident questioned the rationale behind establishing a military center among displaced people, emphasizing the desire for peace.
The Israeli military and Shin Bet security agency say they have verified the deaths of 19 Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad operatives in this morning's airstrike on the Taba'een school in Gaza City.
According to the IDF, the strike was carried out against the Hamas and… pic.twitter.com/VQ5aLe5gS1
— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) August 10, 2024
Today, the IDF and ISA struck terrorists operating in a Hamas command and control center, which was embedded inside a mosque in the Al-Taba’een school compound. Following an intelligence investigation, it can be confirmed at this time that at least 19 Hamas and Islamic Jihad… pic.twitter.com/97fw1Q9cHy
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) August 10, 2024
Regional Developments:
- Iran: There is internal conflict between Iran’s president and the IRGC over how to address Israel. Meanwhile, American intelligence reports significant military activity in western Iran.
- Lebanon: Residents in Hezbollah stronghold Dahieh are fleeing due to fears of conflict. Hezbollah has launched 21 rounds of rockets and drones at northern Israeli towns, including Safed and Rosh Pina, leading to red alerts and potential UAV infiltrations in northern Israel.
- Jordan: Jordan’s Foreign Minister has declared that the country will not allow its airspace to be used for attacks and will intercept any targets.
- US Military Presence: The USS Wasp, an amphibious assault ship, has docked in Cyprus as a precautionary measure.
Protests and Domestic Issues:
- Jerusalem: A small protest in Jerusalem’s King George Street supports a hostage deal, blocking traffic and attracting media attention.
- Druze and Other Protests: The planned Druze demonstration at Beit Leid has been postponed to seek alternative solutions. Protests against military prosecutions and government actions continue, though some have diminished in scale.
- Local Incident: A grenade exploded at a house in Ramat Gan, suspected to be linked to organized crime.
Hezbollah Retaliation Expected:
Israel has warned of a potential Hezbollah attack, following reports of Hezbollah preparing for a major response within the next 24 hours. This is linked to the recent assassination of a senior Hezbollah commander. Hezbollah leader Nasrallah is reportedly determined to retaliate, with signs of disrupted communications and GPS in the region.
May this be a week of Besuros Tovos, may we have a Tisha B’av Yom Tov this year!
