Ongoing Invasion: Israeli Army Unveils Devastation in Northern Gaza

After a month of Israel’s military campaign to remove Hamas from the enclave, northern Gaza is left devastated and desolate. A small group of foreign reporters were given a rare glimpse into the Israeli forces’ advance into the Palestinian territory. The reporters were driven along sandy routes, marked by tank tracks, to the outskirts of Gaza City. Every building within sight was scarred by battle, with blown-away walls, bullet holes, and shrapnel-dotted facades. Lieutenant Colonel Ido, deputy commander of the 401st brigade, described the fighting as a “war” that will continue until Hamas is no longer in existence.

The Israeli forces entered Gaza on October 27th after days of heavy bombardment in response to a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7th, which Israel claims killed 1,400 people. Over the past 12 days, thousands of Israeli troops have encircled Gaza City, effectively dividing the densely populated coastal enclave. Their objective is to locate and eliminate Hamas fighters.

Despite the invasion, very few details have emerged about the operation. Reuters footage shot during a guided tour on Wednesday was reviewed by the Israeli army as a condition for embedding a journalist. No material was censored or removed. The military has repeatedly urged civilians to evacuate the north and seek refuge in the southern part of the enclave. Lieutenant Colonel Ido stated that by the time they reached the cluster of buildings, all the families had already left, implying that only Hamas members remained.

Standing in a damaged children’s bedroom, Lieutenant Colonel Ido emphasized the absence of civilians, stating that everyone present was considered an enemy. He pointed out that beneath the family apartment, there were two floors of workshops allegedly used to produce weapons, including drones found in wooden boxes. The workrooms contained metal lathes, hand tools, and grey casings, but it was impossible to verify their purpose.

The reporters were transported to the site in a heavily armored vehicle known as a Tiger, equipped with cameras instead of windows. Earth banks were piled up to provide protection for army vehicles parked outside the destroyed buildings, and tanks had metal grills on top to guard against potential drone attacks. Amidst the scene, a lone chicken wandered around.

According to the latest figures released on Wednesday, 31 Israeli soldiers have been killed and over 260 injured during the Gaza ground offensive. Palestinian officials claim that since October 7th, Israeli forces have killed 10,569 people, with 40% of them being children. Booms and explosions could be heard in the distance, indicating Israel’s continued advancement into the Gaza Strip. The soldiers emphasized their cautious approach and the need to familiarize themselves with the enemy.