Israeli Forces Make Major Advance Toward Gaza City – WSJ

TEL AVIV Israeli tanks and infantry temporarily seized control of a strategic road linking the Gaza Strip s north and south, a major advance that appeared aimed at encircling the enclave s biggest population center, Gaza City.

The thrust through the center of Gaza marked the deepest push into Palestinian territory since Israeli ground troops entered the strip late last week, starting a new phase in its war to eradicate Islamist militant group Hamas following the surprise Oct. 7 attacks. The Israeli military and Hamas said there were clashes between troops and militants Monday, and Israel said its forces had freed a soldier taken prisoner on Oct. 7.

The question now is whether the Israeli army which has also invaded from Gaza s north moves to quickly surround the city and then enter with overwhelming force to destroy Hamas, or advance more deliberately, lay siege to the militant group and use air power to continue destroying its underground tunnels. Israeli military officials have said the war would take months, suggesting Monday s moves were probes intended to test defenses and show force, military analysts said.

via www.wsj.com