Entering the “next phase”?
Israel wants to increase air strikes in the Gaza Strip
October 21, 2023, 11:03 p.m
The Israeli military is talking about a “next phase of the war” and, according to media reports, has also announced that it will increase air strikes against Hamas. However, it remains unclear whether this is intended to prepare for the expected ground offensive.
Israel’s army reportedly wants to step up its airstrikes against the Islamist Hamas in the Gaza Strip. “We are increasing the attacks and minimizing the danger,” Israeli media quoted army spokesman Daniel Hagari as saying. “We must enter the next phase of the war under the best conditions.” However, he did not say whether by the “next phase” he meant the expected ground offensive in the coastal strip on the Mediterranean.
Since the Hamas terrorist attack two weeks ago, the Israeli army has already bombed numerous targets in the Gaza Strip. Army chief Herzi Halevi announced: “We will enter the Gaza Strip for an operational, professional mission: to destroy Hamas operatives and infrastructure.”
Israeli media also reported, citing the army, that the military had attacked dozens of high-rise buildings in the northern Gaza Strip in recent days in preparation for a ground offensive. According to Hamas, these may serve as observation and sniper posts.
The Israeli army had previously announced that it was continuing preparations for the “next phase of the war” in the Gaza Strip. This also includes operations on the ground. “In recent days, plans to expand operational operations have been approved,” it said in a statement. Army units are stationed on site and are training according to the approved plans. Commander Or Volozhinsky of the 188th Tank Brigade reportedly said: “With fighting spirit and determination, we will achieve what is necessary to bring security to our people for many years to come.”