Israeli infantry raids central Gaza

The Israeli army said its infantry raided a position in central Gaza, helping to identify and destroy several Hamas targets.

"During the past day, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) infantry, with support from fighter jets and UAVs, carried out a raid in the central Gaza Strip," the Israeli military announced today.

The IDF identified and struck several targets, including a command and control post, an anti-tank missile launch site, and Hamas members. Israeli troops "withdrew from the area after the operation ended and no casualties were reported."

The Israeli military released images showing a convoy of armored vehicles and buildings being attacked, with a large plume of smoke rising.

Israeli infantry raids target in central Gaza — Images of targets in Gaza attacked by the IDF during the operation on October 26. Video : *IDF*

The IDF also launched a similar operation on the night of October 25, using infantry and tanks to attack several military positions, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch points of armed groups in the northern Gaza Strip. The force did not announce any damage or casualties related to the warring parties.

The move comes as the IDF is massing more than 300,000 troops, tanks, armored vehicles and heavy combat vehicles near the Gaza Strip, preparing for a large-scale operation against the area. The IDF has repeatedly stated that a ground offensive could help them achieve their goal of "eradicating Hamas", despite the risk of heavy casualties.

Hamas, the force that controls the Gaza Strip, launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, prompting the latter to retaliate. Fighting between the two sides has left more than 8,400 people dead and more than 22,800 injured as of October 26. Hamas' health agency said at least 7,028 people have died in Gaza, the highest number since Israeli forces withdrew from the area in 2005.