Tel Aviv: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Thursday that it struck a rocket-firing facility in Gaza used to launch attacks on Israeli towns Sderot and Ibim. The airstrike was carried out shortly after rockets were launched, based on intelligence from the 401st Brigade’s fire control center,as per a report by the Al Jazeera.
In addition to the targeted strike, the IDF reported that approximately 150 other locations were bombed in the last 24 hours. These included underground tunnels, military buildings, weapons storage sites, sniper positions, and other infrastructure believed to be used by Palestinian armed groups.
IDF ground operations continue in northern Gaza, particularly involving the 162nd Division and the Nahal Brigade, who are said to be dismantling militant infrastructure including tunnel shafts and arms depots. In Khan Younis, IDF troops uncovered a weapons cache containing rifles, pistols, ammunition, and mortar shells.
Operations also remain active in Rafah and near the western Negev region, with the 143rd Gaza Division conducting both defensive and offensive maneuvers.
The Israeli Air Force posted on social media that it was responsible for striking around 150 targets across Gaza in a 24-hour period. Footage showed smoke rising from various parts of the Strip following intense bombardment.
Meanwhile, health authorities in Gaza report that since Israel resumed its military offensive on March 18 after a brief ceasefire, 6,454 Palestinians have been killed and 22,551 injured. The total death toll since the war began on October 7, 2023, has reached 57,012, with 134,592 reported injuries.
On Thursday alone, 63 Palestinians were killed, including 28 individuals who were reportedly waiting for humanitarian aid in central and southern Gaza.
The escalating violence has drawn global concern, with renewed calls from international organizations urging an immediate ceasefire and protection of civilians, especially amid the worsening humanitarian situation.
