Defrin emphasized that while Israel is opening corridors such as the Rashid route to allow civilians safe passage, Hamas is obstructing them.
By Vered Weiss
The Israel Defense Forces announced Tuesday that ground operations in Gaza City have entered a new stage, with combined air, land, and intelligence units pressing deeper into the Hamas stronghold.
Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin, the IDF spokesperson, said the offensive reflects a “new phase of the operation” focused on dismantling Hamas’ core military and governing infrastructure.
“Working together in coordinated and precise strikes, air, ground, and intelligence forces are targeting Hamas military targets that threaten Israel’s security,” he stated.
Defrin described Gaza City as Hamas’ “central hub of power” and accused the group of cynically endangering civilians. “Hamas has turned Gaza City into the largest human shield in history,” he declared. According to the IDF, a sprawling tunnel network lies beneath the city, linking command posts, rocket launchers, and weapons stockpiles, all intentionally placed under civilian neighborhoods and infrastructure.
The spokesperson urged residents to move away from combat zones. “We continue to urge civilians to distance themselves from the fighting so they can reach safer areas,” he said.
Israel has established a designated humanitarian zone in the south of Gaza, providing food, water, shelter, and medical assistance.
Defrin emphasized that while Israel is opening corridors such as the Rashid route to allow civilians safe passage, Hamas is obstructing them.
“Hamas is actively trying to block families from leaving—forcing them to remain in harm’s way in order to shield Hamas terrorists and preserve its power,” he charged.
Defrin also drew attention to the plight of Israeli captives.
“Hamas continues to hold dozens of our hostages in inhumane conditions. Their safe return is at the forefront of our mission. They are the reason we continue our fight,” he stressed.
He concluded by framing the operation as both a strategic necessity and a moral imperative.
“Our forces are acting with determination, guided by the clear moral duty to free our hostages and end Hamas’ rule of terror.”
