Has the IDF started a ground operation in Gaza? Everything you need to know 

The IDF spokesperson confirmed today (Wednesday) that forces have begun ground operations and are creating a partial buffer between the northern and southern parts of the Gaza Strip. As part of the operation, the forces have reestablished and expanded their control up to the center of the Netzarim corridor.

At the same time, forces from the Golani Brigade will be stationed in the southern sector and remain on standby to operate in the Gaza Strip.

Hamas complained bitterly, and its spokesman Abd al-Latif al-Qanou made this statement:

“Closing the Salah al-Din corridor is a complete abandonment of the agreement, an escalation of the siege on Gaza, and a tightening of the stranglehold on its residents.

Any proposal based on entering the second phase of negotiations and achieving a permanent ceasefire will be welcomed and considered. We are eager to stop the bloodshed and are open to all efforts that would lead to a permanent ceasefire and withdrawal from Gaza. Continuing the state of war serves only Netanyahu and his political future while endangering the lives of the hostages in Gaza.”

Israel may soon escalate its military strategy in Gaza, with senior IDF officials telling The New York Times that a full ground offensive—and even formal control over parts of the Strip—remains on the table to force Hamas back to hostage talks. But, if Hamas clings to power, a ground push could follow, aimed at dismantling its grip and killing off lesser-known commanders previously spared.

The shift comes with risks. Aerial pressure alone might not budge Hamas, leaving Israel facing global backlash without tangible gains—a scenario that could prompt a dramatic pivot to capturing and governing swathes of Gaza, a step avoided earlier in the conflict. The IDF’s restraint reflects a balancing act, but the return of far-right minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to the cabinet hours after the strikes has tinged the campaign with political optics, fueling Hamas’s narrative and critics’ ire.

Defense Minister Israel Katz addressed Gazan residents:

“Residents of Gaza, this is your final warning.The first Sinwar destroyed Gaza, and the second Sinwar will completely devastate it. The Air Force’s strike against Hamas terrorists was only the first step. What follows will be far harsher, and you will bear the full cost.

Soon, the evacuation of the population from combat zones will begin again. If all the Israeli hostages are not released and Hamas is not removed from Gaza, Israel will act with intensities you have not yet experienced.

Take the advice of the U.S. President. Release the hostages and remove Hamas, and other options will open up for you—including the possibility of leaving for other places in the world for those who wish to do so.

The alternative is total destruction and ruin.”

It's not likely the Gazans will listen though. They haven't listened in the past, even when Netanyahu offered them millions of shekels per hostage returned. Between their rampant hatred of all things Israel and their fear of Hamas, it looks like the only way to get our hostages back (while also endangering them further) is another full-on ground offensive.