Israel-Hamas War: Israeli Tanks Cross Into Gaza For "Targeted Raids"

The Israeli security forces are conducting brief raids across the Gaza border ahead of an expected ground incursion. Israel stated that they carried out a “targeted” raid overnight into the northern regions of Gaza using tanks and attacked multiple Hamas targets. As the war entered day 21, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also said that these ground raids were part of preparation for the next stages of the war against Hamas.

At the same time, Hamas reportedly claimed that “almost 50” Israeli hostages had been killed since Israeli strikes started in Gaza. This claim was made by Abu Obeida, spokesperson for the Hamas’s military wing, reported AFP. Meanwhile, Israel Defence Forces said that they killed Shadi Barud, deputy head of Hamas intelligence, in a strike in the Gaza Strip. “He took part in the planning of the October 7 massacre and countless other deadly attacks carried out against Israelis,” mentioned the IDF on its X handle.

“Over 5,700 people have been killed since 7 Oct, including 2,360 children, according to Gaza Ministry of Health. This is in addition to 1,550 people reported missing, presumably under the rubble of destroyed buildings – including 870 children,” said the UN Agency for Palestine Refugees on X. As per UNICEF, a daily average of over 400 children are either killed or wounded in Gaza.

There is no place is safe in📍#Gaza

Over 5,700 people have been killed since 7 Oct, including 2,360 children, according to Gaza Ministry of Health.

This is in addition to 1,550 people reported missing, presumably under the rubble of destroyed buildings – including 870 children. pic.twitter.com/FD9CbRnTAZ

— UNRWA (@UNRWA) October 26, 2023

Amid the Israel-Hamas war, the United States has deployed about 900 troops to the Middle East. A Pentagon spokesperson stated that they were not heading to Israel. The Pentagon also clarified that these troops were meant to support regional deterrence efforts and enhance US force protection capabilities. However, the United States confirmed that they will send two Iron Dome systems to Israel to help further improve air defense capabilities and protect citizens from rocket attacks. John Kirby, White House National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications, said that Israel has the right and responsibility to go after Hamas after what happened on October 7.