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The Israeli Defense Forces have indicated that the current operation could stretch beyond the northern reaches of Gaza and extend into the southern Gaza Strip if the situation requires it. This was communicated by a press service representative from the IDF who spoke on background to RIA News, identified as reserve major Anna Ukolova. The message suggested a readiness to adapt to battlefield realities as it analyzes where Hamas’ facilities and capabilities are concentrated and how civilians may be affected across the territory. (Source: RIA News)

The spokesperson stressed that Hamas has operations and infrastructure that extend beyond the northern city blocks and into other areas of Gaza. The implication is that the conflict response is not confined to a single zone and may involve shifting targets as necessary to degrade militant networks while attempting to minimize civilian harm where possible. (Source: RIA News)

Ukolova emphasized that while civilian facilities in the south are known to be used by militant groups, the current emphasis remains on the northern sector of Gaza. He noted that if circumstances dictate a broader campaign, the IDF would consider attacking additional parts of the region in order to pursue strategic objectives and protect Israeli security. (Source: RIA News)

The IDF spokesman described Hamas as a formidable adversary while signaling that Israeli units are advancing gradually, pushing deeper into Palestinian territory as part of a sustained operation. The description underscores the challenges of the tactical landscape and the measured tempo of progress in what is described as a complex urban environment. (Source: RIA News)

Earlier remarks attributed to General Hakari indicated that the IDF had completed a siege phase in Gaza. Such statements are typically part of the broader communications strategy during a conflict to convey progress and to manage international attention regarding humanitarian considerations and military objectives. (Source: RIA News)

Former Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has publicly articulated an objective to eliminate Hamas, framing the political aim alongside ongoing military actions. The articulation of this stance reflects the enduring political dimension of the security challenge and the expectations placed on leadership to deliver results in the face of persistent threats. (Source: RIA News)