Image Credits - Middle East Monitor
In a statement on Telegram, the Qassam Brigades described the operation in detail and claimed that their fighter jets fired missiles at Israeli military vehicles during an ongoing military operation. The incident highlights intense and ongoing clashes between Hamas and Israeli forces in Gaza, which have escalated in recent weeks.
In addition to the Rafah attack, the Qassam Brigades reported attacking advancing Israeli forces with mortars in the northeast of the al-Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza. This indicates an expansion of the conflict zone, with hostilities affecting several areas of the Gaza Strip.
The Israeli army has not yet confirmed the details of these attacks or provided information on possible casualties or damage to equipment. However, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were actively involved in operations throughout Gaza, responding to rocket fire and other extremists.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in heavy casualties and destruction on both sides. The densely populated Gaza Strip has been hit particularly hard, with repeated airstrikes and artillery fire causing extensive damage to infrastructure and civilian property.
Hamas, which rules Gaza, has continued to fire rockets and attack Israeli military and civilian targets, claiming these actions are in response to Israel’s invasion and occupation. Recent claims by the Qassam Brigades of targeting Israeli military vehicles are part of this ongoing cycle of retaliation.
International efforts to broker a ceasefire and end the violence have so far failed. The UN and several countries have called for restraint and dialogue, urging both sides to prioritize the protection of civilians and work for a lasting peace agreement.
As the situation remains volatile, the humanitarian impact on the civilian population of Gaza continues to increase. Thousands of residents were displaced from their homes and access to essential services such as healthcare and electricity was severely disrupted. Recent attacks by the Qassam Brigades highlight the ongoing and deeply entrenched nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.