IDF Spokesperson Effie Defrin announced this evening that the new operation is intended to provide 'all necessary flexibility to bring the hostages back.'

There is huge fighting going on, intense and huge, we are going to control all parts of Gaza,” Netanyahu said in a video message Monday.

The IDF outlined its objectives for Operation Gideon's Chariot, focusing on advancing operations in Gaza, protecting civilians, and dismantling Hamas's capabilities.

IDF Spokesperson Lt Col Nadav Shoshani listed down the major objectives of Operation Gideon's Chariot through a video message on Monday. In the message, Lt Col Shoshani informed that the IDF ground forces advanced their operations in Northern and Southern Gaza.

The Israeli military says it has launched the first stages of a new major offensive in Gaza, in a development that comes on the same day that US President Donald Trump concluded his visit to the region without securing a ceasefire deal.

US Vice President JD Vance canceled a potential Israel visit this week amid concerns it could signal support for Netanyahu’s controversial Gaza offensive, despite official claims of “logistical constraints,

Israel says the strikes are preparation for a larger operation - "Operation Gideon’s Chariots" - which includes plans to occupy the strip.