Israel's Heart of Battle: Troops Surround Gaza City, Paying a Heavy Price

The Israel Defence Force (IDF) has made a significant advance into Gaza City, according to IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi. In a statement made on Thursday, Halevi revealed that Israeli troops are operating inside Gaza City and surrounding it from various directions, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict.

Halevi stated, "We have advanced another significant stage in the war. The forces are in the heart of northern Gaza, operating in Gaza City, surrounding it, and deepening the ground offensive and achievements." The complex urban terrain in Gaza City has posed a considerable challenge, requiring professional combat skills and courage.

He emphasized that the Israeli forces are fighting for the sanctity of life against an enemy represented by flags of death and destruction. The IDF's mission is driven by a strong moral compass, fighting for justice and morality against a terrorist organization responsible for what he referred to as "vile and horrific war crimes."

However, the conflict has come at a "painful and difficult price," with 18 Israeli soldiers losing their lives during the ground operation. Halevi expressed solidarity with the families of the fallen soldiers and reaffirmed Israel's commitment to continuing the fight.

Addressing concerns about fuel supplies to Gaza, Halevi assured that fuel would be allowed for use in hospitals. He explained, "We have not brought fuel into this point. We check the situation in the Strip every day. For over a week, they have told us that the fuel in the hospitals will run out, and it hasn't. Fuel will be transferred, with oversight, to the hospitals, and we will do everything to ensure that it won't serve Hamas's military aims."

In the midst of these developments, around...