Tel Aviv [Israel], May 17 (HBTV): The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have launched the Gideon Chariots campaign aimed at securing the release of remaining hostages, Times of Israel reported.

Quoting military sources, the report stated: ‘IDF troops in the Southern Command will continue to operate to protect Israeli citizens and realize the goals of the war.’

According to Israeli officials cited by the Times of Israel, the operation includes efforts to gain full control of Gaza, relocate the Palestinian civilian population towards the southern parts of the Strip, target Hamas infrastructure, and prevent the group from taking control of humanitarian aid.

In a post on X shared early Saturday, the IDF confirmed that it had begun conducting strikes and mobilising troops to achieve ‘operational control’ in Gaza. The statement noted that these actions are part of preparations to expand military operations and meet the war’s primary goals, including the dismantling of Hamas and the rescue of hostages.

‘The IDF has begun conducting extensive strikes and mobilizing troops to achieve operational control in the areas of Gaza, over the past day. This is part of preparations to expand operations and fulfil the objectives of the war — including the release of hostages and the dismantling of the Hamas terrorist organization. IDF troops will continue to operate in order to protect Israeli civilians and achieve the objectives of the war,’ the post said.

In a separate statement also posted on X, the IDF reiterated its commitment: ‘We won’t stop operating until Hamas is no longer a threat and all our hostages are home.’

Meanwhile, Al Jazeera reported that Israeli forces have ordered thousands of Palestinians to flee from parts of northern Gaza. The air strikes since Friday have reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 115 people, the outlet said.

(ANI)