The IDF and Shin Bet announced Tuesday that last Thursday, an Israeli Air Force aircraft carried out a precise and targeted strike in Gaza, coordinated with Military Intelligence, Shin Bet, and the Southern Command. The strike targeted a command and control center, established in a site previously used as the “Abu Hassan” school in northern Gaza, which was being used by Hamas and Islamic Jihad militants. During the strike, at least 18 militants were killed.
The IDF also emphasized that “the command and control center that was attacked was used by the militants to plan and execute terror activities against IDF forces and Israeli civilians. These militants were involved in launching indirect fire into Israeli territory and were working on executing terror attacks against IDF forces and Israel, particularly in recent days.”
Hamas continues to use civilian structures, including schools, for terrorist activities, and the IDF made it clear that they will continue to act decisively against terrorist organizations exploiting civilian institutions as human shields. This is being done with precise measures to avoid harming civilians, using advanced weaponry and up-to-date intelligence.
Meanwhile, in the context of the fighting in Gaza and following the death of Brigade 401 Commander, Colonel Ihsan Deksa of blessed memory last week, Southern Command Commander Major General Yaron Finkelman held a situation assessment meeting in Gaza, together with the Commander of Division 162, Brigadier General Itzik Cohen, and other senior officers. During the meeting, the general spoke with the soldiers and battlefield commanders about Ihsan’s legacy, the importance of front-line leadership, the achievements in Jabaliya, and the progress of the fighting.
Regarding Ihsan, Major General Finkelman said: “Ihsan was one of our leading officers, one of the best field commanders. Not long ago, I handed him the brigade patch, wished him success, and within hours, he led the brigade’s first attack in Rafah at Tel Sultan. Today, it can also be said that these attacks, this action, are what eventually created the conditions that led to the elimination of Sinwar. We will always remember him and his legacy, and his legacy to you and us is one: continue the missions, don’t stop, look through the pain, though the pain is great for all of us, with clear and determined vision. Until the mission is complete, until victory. Here in Jabaliya, and wherever 401st or any Southern Command force is needed.”
