Israeli army officially announces expansion of war against Gaza

Avichai Adraee, the spokesperson for the occupying army, stated in a release: "Over the past day, the Israeli army has launched widespread attacks and placed its forces in controlled areas of the Gaza Strip on high alert."

The spokesperson continued: "We have initiated extensive attacks and troop movements to seize strategic locations within the Gaza Strip."

According to Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, Adraee emphasized: "Our actions are part of the initial phase of the 'Gideon’s Chariots' operation to achieve all war objectives, including the release of abducted soldiers and the destruction of Hamas."

He added: "The Israeli army forces in the Southern Command will continue their operations to protect Israeli citizens and achieve the war’s objectives."