The IDF has found proof that Hamas is working with Iran to acquire cruise missile capabilities, which has escalated the situation in Gaza. This is a worrying development since it indicates that Hamas's arsenal has advanced significantly, raising the possibility that their attacks could become more dangerous.
An underground weapons manufacturing facility was found by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) during a raid in the Gaza City areas of Daraj and Tuffah. Images made public by the IDF showed what seemed to be the warhead and rocket engine of a cruise missile.
This is a significant divergence from Hamas's usual armament, which consists mostly of guided missiles, unguided rockets, and some drones. Over 22,000 people have reportedly died in the Gaza battle, including both combatants and civilians, according to health authorities under Hamas control. About 8,500 terrorists, according to Israel, have been targeted and killed. Tragically, the fighting has also claimed the lives of journalists: an Israeli airstrike killed two Palestinian reporters.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is actively participating in ongoing international attempts to defuse the situation amid the crisis. In order to stop further escalation and to provide more humanitarian help, he has pleaded with Israel to alter its military activities. Blinken is due to tour Israel and the West Bank after meeting with many regional officials, including as King Abdullah of Jordan.
The struggle has taken on a new dimension as a result of the IDF's latest discoveries, emphasizing the necessity of ground operations to destroy Hamas's weapon manufacturing. The military assault will continue until all goals are achieved, including the total neutralization of Hamas as a threat to Israel, according to Prime Minister Netanyahu, who is sticking to his hard line.
These latest developments in the war highlight how complicated the situation in Gaza is and present a serious threat to regional peace.