Israel Nears Completion of Gaza Missions, Shifts Focus to North, Defence Minister Announces – U.S. News & World Report

Israel is nearing the completion of its missions in Gaza and will now shift its focus to the northern region, Defense Minister Benny Gantz announced on Tuesday.

After 11 days of intense fighting in Gaza, Israel is close to achieving its objectives in the region, Gantz said in a statement. The Israeli military has targeted Hamas militants and infrastructure in Gaza in response to rockets fired from the Palestinian territory.

“We are close to completing the missions in Gaza,” Gantz said. “Our focus will now shift to the northern front, where we will continue to defend our borders and ensure the safety of our citizens.”

The announcement comes as a ceasefire brokered by Egypt and the United Nations took effect on Friday, bringing an end to the violence that has claimed the lives of over 250 people, the vast majority of them Palestinians.

Despite the ceasefire, tensions remain high in the region, with both sides on high alert for any potential resumption of hostilities. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that Israel will respond with force to any provocation from Hamas or other militant groups.

The focus on the northern front is likely to raise concerns about a potential escalation of violence in the region, where Israel has been engaged in periodic clashes with Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group based in Lebanon.

Gantz’s announcement signals Israel’s readiness to confront any threats to its security, both in Gaza and in the north. As the situation in the region remains volatile, the Israeli military will continue to be on high alert to defend the country from any potential threats.