IDF Strikes Pickup Trucks in Gaza, Part of Broader Operations
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the destruction of over 100 pickup trucks across the Gaza Strip on Monday evening. According to the IDF, these vehicles played a role in the October 7 attacks and were also used during the recent hostage release ceremonies related to the latest ceasefire deal.
“Hamas terrorists used white pickup trucks in the murderous massacre on October 7, to infiltrate Israeli territory, murder, and abduct Israeli civilians,” stated the IDF in an official announcement. “These pickup trucks were used for terrorist purposes and for transferring weapons.”
Israeli security forces stand next to a vehicle used by Hamas militants.
The strikes have prompted reactions from both sides, with Gazan journalist Hamza al-Masri warning against the use of Toyota pickup trucks, claiming, “Every Toyota pickup is being targeted by Israel. Stay away from such vehicles.”
Palestinians fleeing their homes in Beit Lahia.
Hamas also addressed the issue, issuing a warning via its Telegram channel to its operatives. The message advised that, “there is a need to be careful not to use military vehicles and vehicles similar to those used by the resistance organizations or the security forces.”
Ongoing “Hunt” for Hamas Operatives and Leaders
According to reports from the Walla news site, the targeting of pickup trucks is part of a larger operation described as a “hunt” for Hamas leaders, field commanders, and operatives. Walla reported on Monday that Israeli intelligence agencies, including the Shin Bet and the IDF Southern Command, are actively pursuing Hamas figures.
In recent operations conducted in the Tel Sultan neighborhood of Rafah, the IDF captured dozens of terror suspects, who were then transferred for interrogation. Hebrew media sources also indicated that the Southern Command intends to evacuate civilians ahead of major ground operations and that there will be no possibility of return until the end of the conflict.
UN Reduces Presence in Gaza
Amidst the increasing military activity and the anticipated resumption of a full-scale ground operation in the Gaza Strip, the UN announced it would decrease its presence in the enclave. The UN stated it will “reduce its footprint” in the area. The UN stated that this decision is a temporary measure and they hope to have people return to Gaza as soon as practicable.
IDF Admits to Mistaken Strike on Red Cross Facility
The IDF acknowledged a case of mistaken fire on an International Red Cross facility. After the ICRC reported the strike, the IDF announced that soldiers had mistakenly fired at a group of individuals near the building they believed were threatening them. The military has launched an investigation into the incident, stating that the ground troops were unaware the facility belonged to the Red Cross.
Increased Military Activity in Northern Gaza
On Tuesday morning, the IDF announced that communities in the Gaza Envelope would hear loud explosions due to the increased military action in the northern Gaza Strip. Explosions were subsequently reported in the Jabaliya area of Gaza by Palestinian social media accounts.
