Israeli Defense Minister Declares End to Intense Ground Operations in North Gaza

According to Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, the country's military has concluded the most severe stage of its ground offensive against Hamas in the northern part of the Gaza Strip. The statement, made on a Monday, conveyed a shift in military focus, with the southern part of the enclave expected to see a reduction in operations soon.

Gallant announced at a press briefing that the intensive phase in the north has been brought to a close and similar results are anticipated to occur in the southern regions. However, he did not provide specific details regarding the timeline for the operation's de-escalation in the south, which houses the majority of Gaza's Palestinian population. This comes after Gallant's remarks to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken about plans to 'intensify' actions in the southern city of Khan Younis.

The United States has previously called for a lessening of the conflict's intensity in Gaza, following significant Palestinian casualty figures. Despite the calls, the US continues its unconditional military aid to Israel without imposing pressure to change its engagement tactics. A senior US official indicated to The Washington Post that the US expects a downscaling of Israeli military activity in February after tolerating a high-intensity approach throughout January.

Adjusted operations based on on-ground realities and intelligence to counter Hamas efforts are part the Israeli military strategy, according to Gallant. He claims that, in North Gaza, the destruction of Hamas's battalion structures has been achieved, and now the focus is on eradicating residual resistance through various military operations.

Despite facing strong pushback from Hamas and other militant factions, the Israeli military has confirmed casualties and a significant number of troops incapacitated during the Gaza engagements. The ground campaign has proven costly in terms of human life and ongoing efforts.

Israel, Gaza, Conflict