Israel is preparing to escalate its military activity in Gaza after Hamas rejected a temporary truce proposal. The IDF aims to target Hamas strongholds and seize territory in Rafah. Israel reentered the strip in March after failed negotiations. The IDF has achieved operational gains, eliminating Hamas soldiers and destroying infrastructure. Hamas has responded with rocket attacks. Israeli defense minister Israel Katz stated that thousands of IDF soldiers are fighting to free hostages and destroy Hamas terrorists.