Israel-Hamas conflict: IDF conduct air strikes on 'terrorist compound' at Mosque in 'occupied' West Bank

Israel-Hamas conflict: The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) recently conducted an aerial strike on the Al-Ansar Mosque in 'occupied' West Bank's Jenin, which was reportedly used as a command center for Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorist activities.

IDF Aims at Terrorist Compound

The IDF, in coordination with Israel Securities Authorities, targeted the mosque, which served as a base for planning and executing terrorist attacks against civilians. In a statement posted on X, the IDF confirmed the operation, stating, "The IDF & ISA just conducted an aerial strike on a Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorist compound in the Al-Ansar Mosque in Jenin. Recent IDF intel revealed that the Mosque was used as a command center to plan and execute terrorist attacks against civilians."

IDF's Strike on Terrorist Cell

In another communication on X, the IDF revealed that their soldiers successfully targeted a terrorist cell attempting to launch anti-tank missiles towards northern Israel. Emphasizing the deceptive nature of Hamas, the IDF warned, "Hamas wants the world to believe that they are a humanitarian organization. Don't fall for their trap."

IDF's Message: Hamas Worse Than ISIS

In a video message shared on X, Israel Defense Forces spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari highlighted Hamas's recent attempts to portray themselves as a humanitarian organization. He cautioned, "Hamas in the past 24 hours, as well as the days before, but especially in the last 24 hours, has been trying to present itself as a humanitarian organization to the world after the release of the two hostages yesterday. The world cannot forget Hamas is worse than ISIS."

Hamas's Use of Human Shields

The Israeli Air Force underscored the concerning practice of Hamas using Gaza residents as human shields and launching rockets from civilian infrastructure. They stated, "The Hamas terrorist organization uses the residents of the Gaza Strip as human shields, and launches rockets from civilian infrastructure, areas, and buildings in the Gaza Strip."

Failed Launches by Hamas

The IDF revealed that they have identified approximately 550 failed rocket launches by Hamas within Gaza since October 7. Their statement on X read, "Since Oct 7, the IDF has identified about 550 failed launches fired by Hamas that landed inside Gaza. The Hamas terrorist organization launches rockets from civilian infrastructure, areas, and buildings in Gaza, injuring their own civilians."

Increased Airstrikes and Ongoing Operations

IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari announced an escalation in airstrikes on Gaza. Speaking in Tel Aviv, he stated, "We will increase our strikes, minimize the risk to our troops in the next stages of the war, and we will intensify the strikes, starting from today." Hagari clarified that ground operations in Gaza would be launched when optimal military conditions exist.

Addressing Humanitarian Concerns

Hagari acknowledged the challenging humanitarian situation in Gaza and urged residents to move south for their safety. He mentioned that humanitarian aid would be directed to the southern areas, while the IDF continues to target Hamas in the north.

Casualties and Hostages

Israel has been in contact with the families of 307 fallen soldiers. The number of hostages was raised to 210, and Israel is actively gathering intelligence to inform families promptly regarding any developments.

(With ANI Inputs)