Israel Strengthens Military Operation in Gaza Strip After Hamas Shelling.

In the evening of April 6, Hamas militants shelled Israel with rockets. In response, the IDF will expand its offensive in the Gaza Strip. This was reported by 'Glavcom' citing the Times of Israel.

Hamas launched attacks on Israeli territory with ten rockets. The Israel Defense Forces reported that about five shells were intercepted.

Israel notes that militants fired rockets from Deir al-Balah in central Gaza and shelled the Ashdod area. One rocket, which was not intercepted, hit Ashkelon, resulting in one person being injured.

As a result of the shelling, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged Defense Minister Israel Katz to 'respond firmly' and agreed to continue intensive military operations against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

The Defense Minister ordered the IDF to 'continue and expand' the current offensive against Hamas in the enclave. Additionally, Katz indicated that he had instructed the Israel Defense Forces to 'deliver a very powerful blow to Hamas in Gaza in accordance with the shelling.'

It is worth noting that Israel may long-term occupy the Gaza Strip and relocate local residents to a special zone on the Mediterranean coast. Such a move is aimed at the ultimate destruction of the Hamas group.

Benjamin Netanyahu urged Hamas to surrender, and its leaders to leave the Gaza Strip. He also stated his intention to continue applying pressure on the group.

Analysis

Yesterday's shelling between Israel and Hamas confirms the ongoing conflict between the parties. Both sides continue to employ force directed against each other. The expansion of the IDF's offensive in the Gaza Strip indicates a rise in tension and intransigence between the Israelis and Hamas militants. Special attention should be given to the potential consequences of long-term occupation of the Gaza Strip and the relocation of local residents. This could lead to new waves of violence and escalation of the conflict.