Israel Announces Completion of Military Operations in Northern Gaza as Fourth Month of War Begins

Daniel Hagari, spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces, announced on Sunday, marking the beginning of the fourth month of the war between Israel and Hamas, that a major operation in northern Gaza has been completed with the destruction of military infrastructure belonging to the Palestinian militant group. According to the Associated Press, he also stated that the Israeli army will focus on central and southern Gaza in the future instead of deploying forces in northern Gaza, and will strengthen defenses along the Israel-Gaza border. This announcement comes as the U.S. Secretary of State is visiting the region, and Biden administration officials have urged Israel to reduce its air and ground attacks in Gaza and to focus on targeted strikes against Hamas leaders. Antony Blinken said on Sunday at a press conference in Doha, the capital of Qatar, that during his visit to Israel, he would tell officials that it is essential to take further actions to prevent more civilian casualties in Gaza. The Gaza Health Ministry, controlled by Hamas, claims that more than 22,800 Palestinians have been killed so far; a figure that cannot be independently verified. Israel claims that Hamas uses civilians as human shields. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized that this war will not end until Hamas is 'destroyed', 'Israeli hostages' are returned home, and 'it is ensured that Gaza will no longer be a threat to Israel'. In the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, at least 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed. Israel, the United States, the European Union, and several countries have designated Hamas as a terrorist organization. Hamas is supported by the Islamic Republic of Iran. Blinken in Qatar: Palestinians must be able to return home after the war ends. Gaza officials: Two journalists were killed in an Israeli airstrike. Blinken's visit to the World Food Program warehouse in Jordan: The U.S. is focused on the 'very difficult' conditions in Gaza. Israel: Hamas hides weapons and ammunition in bags marked with the United Nations logo. Netanyahu: The war will continue until 'all objectives' are achieved; Hezbollah should know that no terrorist is immune.