Israel launches ‘Chariots of Gideon’ operation in Gaza

On May 17, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced the launch of a new large-scale military operation called “Chariots of Gideon.” The operation began amid ongoing hostilities in the Gaza Strip and was described by the Israeli side as a “phase of ground maneuvers.”

Main goal: eliminating Hamas and separating civilians

According to the Israeli army, the primary objective of the operation is to separate Hamas militants from civilians and ensure the army's freedom of movement. As part of this plan, the civilian population — especially in northern Gaza — is being relocated to the south.

Both active-duty soldiers and reservists are involved in the operation. In early May, The Times of Israel and Bloomberg reported that Israel was preparing to mobilize “tens of thousands” of reservists.

Over 670 strikes and the beginning of a new stage

The Israeli Air Force reported that more than 670 Hamas-related targets were struck over the past week. These included weapons depots, anti-tank missile launchers, underground infrastructure, and Hamas personnel.

These airstrikes were conducted in preparation for the ground phase of the “Chariots of Gideon” operation. Israel stated that these were precise, targeted strikes intended to weaken Hamas.

Netanyahu: “We will finish with full force”

On May 13, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the army would soon begin concluding the military campaign in Gaza “with full force.” According to him, this phase aims to ensure Hamas’s defeat.

Zamin.uz editorial note:
The “Chariots of Gideon” operation marks a new and more intense phase of the conflict in Gaza. At the same time, the fate of civilians and regional stability remains the biggest concern. Do you believe this operation will contribute to peace? Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!