Popular Forces Militia Launches Operation Against Hamas in Gaza
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GAZA STRIP — The Popular Forces Militia, led by Ghassan al-Dheini, launched a comprehensive military operation against Hamas across the Gaza Strip on Saturday, marking a significant escalation in the region's ongoing conflict.
The offensive, which began at approximately 16:44 GMT, targeted Hamas positions in Rafah, Khan Yunis, and the Al-Mawasi area. The Popular Forces stated the operation was a direct response to Hamas's refusal to disarm and its failure to comply with a previously issued ultimatum regarding the matter.
Ghassan al-Dheini, the commander of the Popular Forces, announced the start of the campaign, declaring that the militia would not tolerate the continued presence of armed Hamas factions within the territory. The operation involves coordinated ground assaults and aerial strikes aimed at dismantling Hamas's military infrastructure in the targeted zones.
Hamas has not yet issued an official statement regarding the new offensive. However, local sources in the affected areas report increased military activity and the sound of heavy artillery exchanges. Residents in Rafah and Khan Yunis have been urged to seek shelter as fighting intensifies in their neighborhoods.
The Al-Mawasi area, which has been a focal point for humanitarian efforts and displacement in recent months, is now a primary target of the Popular Forces' campaign. The militia claims that Hamas has been using the area to regroup and launch attacks, prompting the decision to strike.
This development comes amid a broader stalemate in the region, where previous ceasefires and disarmament talks have failed to produce a lasting resolution. The Popular Forces' ultimatum, which demanded the complete dissolution of Hamas's armed wings, was rejected by Hamas leadership days before the operation commenced.
International observers are closely monitoring the situation, with concerns mounting over potential civilian casualties and the humanitarian impact of the renewed hostilities. The United Nations and various aid organizations have expressed alarm over the possibility of a large-scale displacement of civilians from the targeted areas.
As the operation continues, the extent of the damage and the number of casualties remain unclear. Both sides have mobilized additional forces, and the conflict shows no signs of de-escalation in the immediate future. The international community is calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to diplomatic negotiations to prevent further loss of life.
The Popular Forces have indicated that the operation will continue until Hamas complies with the disarmament demands. Hamas, in turn, has vowed to resist any attempt to dismantle its military capabilities. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further escalation as both sides dig in for a prolonged confrontation.