Throughout Friday night, the IDF significantly expanded the operations of ground forces in the Gaza Strip and dramatically intensified the firepower of the Air Force.
During the Friday night, the IDF launched a significant operation in the northern part of the Gaza Strip. During the operation, Air Force planes extensively bombed the Gaza Strip, and tank forces and ground troops penetrated deeper into the territory compared to previous actions. The forces remained in the Gaza Strip for an extended period.
During the attack on the Gaza Strip, all communication lines to and from the Strip were cut. The Air Force bombing lasted for hours, as did the ground operation. According to the IDF spokesperson, this represents an expansion of incursions into Gaza, but it does not involve the full-scale ground invasion planned for the future.
Defense Minister Gallant declared regarding the fighting, "We have entered a new stage in the war - tonight, the ground in Gaza shook. We attacked from above ground and below ground, targeting terrorist operatives at all levels, in all locations. The instructions to the forces are clear: the operation will continue until new orders are given."
