Israeli forces have re-entered Gaza City, focusing their latest offensive on dismantling the infrastructure supporting the local Hamas battalion in the Daraj and Tuffah neighborhoods. Commanders describe a shift in tactics, with the army now methodically demolishing nearly every structure suspected of hiding traps or serving as operational bases for Hamas, rather than engaging directly with fighters. Despite previous claims of having neutralized Hamas's presence in these areas, the group has repeatedly regrouped after Israeli withdrawals, using booby-trapped buildings and tunnels to resist further incursions.

The destruction has left large swathes of Gaza, including cities like Rafah and Khan Younis, in ruins, with the stated goal of eliminating Hamas's operational capabilities. However, some officials have suggested that the widespread demolitions may also be intended to pressure Palestinians to leave the territory. The Israeli military maintains that its operations are necessary to secure border communities and create conditions for the release of remaining hostages, though this strategy faces increasing criticism at home as negotiations for their release stall.

Troops on the ground report encountering few Hamas operatives or civilians, but continue to find extensive networks of traps and tunnels. The current offensive is described as more intense than previous ones, with commanders expressing confidence that, given enough time, they can destroy the remaining Hamas battalion in the area. The broader mission, they say, is both to ensure security for Israeli border towns and to facilitate the return of hostages still held in Gaza.